Natural orientation induction tool apparatus and method

ABSTRACT

An apparatus for training learning disabled subjects, such as autistic children, induces sound waves into a body of a user through two paths, one heard by the ears through air and the other through a liquid or solid in contact with tissues, such as skin and skeleton on the back of a user, below the collar and centered across the vertical axis of the spine. Two transducers produce waves in the audible sound spectrum, repeat persistently, and provide a tone about a location on which the subject may focus attention. A controller and actuator adhered to the skin by an adhesive gel pad against the back of a wearer. The sound, repeating (after a selected delay), decaying, and seeming to originate above and behind the head of a wearer is a waveform becomes a focus; effective to orient a subject, who lacks natural, self-orientation.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application: is a divisional (continuation) of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/419,145, filed Jan. 30, 2017, now issued as U.S.Pat. No. 9,779,634 on Oct. 3, 2017; which is a divisional (continuation)of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/502,873, filed Sep. 30, 2014, nowissued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,589,478 on Mar. 7, 2017; which claims thebenefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/884,833,filed Sep. 30, 2013; all of which are hereby incorporated by referencein their entirety.

BACKGROUND The Field of the Invention

This invention relates to sound generation and, more particularly, tonovel systems and methods for providing aural and tactile signals to ahuman being.

The Background Art

Autism is a condition characterized by persons being overwhelmed bysensory perceptions, which become distorted (disoriented). Typically,the life of an autistic individual is characterized by overwhelmingchaos due to sensitivity to external stimuli, including sight, sound,touch, taste, and smell. Various systems have been developed fortreating autism.

Previous work has been done by the inventor in the area of orientationcounseling and procedures. It has been provided in the past to place aheadset or earbuds on a user in order to generate a sound that isdetected by the ears, processed by the brain, and treated as a focalpoint or an orientation point for an individual. Once focused,perceptions become accurate or undistorted (oriented). However, manypersons, particularly young children or severely affected subjects, maynot be able to wear a headset in order to listen to the sounds that willhelp to focus attention, direct the “mind's eye,” toward the soundperceived to be at a particular position in space.

For example, the essence of stereo is the stereophonic projection ofsound from different locations. Stereophonic headphones, for example,permit different tracks of music or other sound to be passed to theears, thus giving an impression of position and distance. In reality,stereo sound is propagated by a speaker relatively nearer each ear.However, by changing the volume of different tracks, particular soundsmay be played back to a listener in such a way as to appear to beoriginating at different locations, to move with time, or the like.However, experts on the subject have informed the inventor that it isimpossible to exactly locate in space a perceived location for thesound. More particularly, the inventor was informed that it wasimpossible to maintain such a location with respect to an individual.

The David Autism Approach is documented in various books and websitesavailable internationally. Unfortunately, many autistic individuals areunable to wear headphones, or unwilling to do so. Thus, an ability toreceive a sound signal, which has been generated with certain artifacts(such as accommodating the geometry and attenuation of the hearer'shead) and balanced to seem like it is coming from a particular point inspace fixed with respect to the person, is not heretofore possible.However, it would be an advance in the art to provide a system, thatgenerates sound, in a way that such a system can be created and thenworn in such a location and manner that it is not easily removed by asubject, and does not interfere with movement of the head, and normaldaily activities.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In view of the foregoing, in accordance with the invention as embodiedand broadly described herein, a method and apparatus are disclosed inone embodiment of the present invention as including Natural OrientationInduction Tool (NOIT) including a driver and an actuator. Typically thedriver will be embodied in a case having a top and bottom on which arelocated buttons for control and for increasing and decreasing times,delays, frequencies, and the like. Similarly, a power button to turn thesystem on and off will be included. In certain embodiments, a USB portis provided in order to interface with other computer systems forprogramming, processing, analyzing, determining, presenting,downloading, uploading data, downloading programs, and so forth.

Learning disabilities including autism, dyslexia, attention deficitdisorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and the likeprobably have organic causes that relate to the physiology of a subject.The sources, consequences, cures, and other medical features of thesedisabilities are irrelevant to the instant invention. The inventor findsdebate over causes and cures of disabilities has ignored largelyresearch into educating such subjects, regardless of cause and cure. Theresult of some disabilities is distorted perception (disorientation).Orientation (undistorted perception) can be taught or trained byeducation. The inventor's books “The Gift of Dyslexia” (with Eldon M.Braun, Perigee, 2010) and “The Gift of Learning” (with Eldon M. Braun,Perigee, 2003) are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties,and describe orientation.

For example, certain facts were discovered by the inventor, who isautistic and dyslexic. Having been unable to communicate orally insentences before the age of 17 and functionally illiterate to the age of38, the inventor developed the Davis Autism Approach.

However, certain subjects are so hypersensitive to sound and touch, andlive in such a state of sensory overload and confusion, that they cannotbe communicated with effectively by speech. They cannot followinstructions, and cannot or will not wear head phones or ear buds, nordo other activities required to teach them. They thus have no way tolearn to reduce the chaos and confusion sufficiently to begin accuratelyperceiving, without distortion (orienting), the sensory perceptionsdetected by their five senses (sight, sound, touch, smell, taste).

It has been found by the inventor that drawing the attention of asubject to a location above and behind the center of the head,consistently and persistently reduces confusion. Moreover, the inventorhas demonstrated that this mechanism allows a subject to reduceconfusion sufficiently that the subject will accurately perceive thesensations of the five senses, rather than remaining hypersensitive toand confused by them.

An apparatus and method for educating a student in spite of a learningdisability is provided herein. About ten to about fifteen percent ofautistic subjects are so unreachable by speaking, touching, or othercommon interactions that to do so may be dangerous. Touching a studentwith a set of head phones may result in a severe injury from biting bythe subject. Therefore, it is necessary to educate these subjects orstudents sufficiently by other means. Accordingly, a Normal OrientationInduction Tool (NOIT) is directed toward educating a subject. Educationis possible without addressing cause nor curing the cause. Instead ithas been found that education can proceed to teach certain skills thathave been missed previously due to the learning disability. This canoccur in spite of a learning disability.

To reduce confusion it is only necessary to become “oriented,” whereorienting is obtaining undistorted perceptions. This is done by simplyfocusing attention at a single location in space, relative to theindividual, not any environment, sufficiently long for the subject tobegin “perceiving” accurately the sensations and observations reportedby the subject's five senses. It has been found that once certaineducation has occurred, such as learning certain words, becoming awareof self and boundaries, learning such abstractions as ownership ofthings and appropriateness of certain behaviors, confusion may bepermanently reduced and other education can proceed.

Education can proceed immediately, under the influence of the NOIT, aswell as later, after being weaned from the NOIT. About half the subjectsself-wean by simply progressing to the point they no longer require norwant it. About a quarter of the subjects readily wean from the NOITunder the direction of a caregiver guided by a facilitator. Anotherquarter of the subjects persist in their use of the NOIT or analternative to some extent over an extended period of time. For example,an education regimen may typically occur over a period of about fourmonths. However, some subjects have moved from the minimum delay betweensound repetitions to the maximum possible in a period of three days.Others rely on the NOIT or an alternative during some period of a day onsome periodic basis for two years.

A NOIT may involve programmable electronic components as well astransducers for controlling and generating, respectively, sounds. Thesesounds are propagated through air to the ears of a subject (wearer ofthe NOIT) and through the tissues and skeleton of the subject as well.The sounds are propagated repeatedly, persistently, and audibly at avolume of sound insufficient to be disturbing or aggravating to thesubject. The sound is like a bell tone, but has been found to be bestwhen generated by a mallet striking a titanium rod about five inches(about thirteen centimeters) long and half an inch (about thirteenmillimeters) in diameter, suspended on tension wires from a woodencradle the rod is never permitted to touch. Piezoelectric transducers inthe actuator operate at a frequency selected to accurately reproduce theresonant frequency of the titanium rod.

Typically, the driver and actuator will be made as two parts. The drivertypically will secure to a mount, on the actuator, interfacing with somelocation of the driver. Typically, one engaging portion, such as a railor the like, will act as a mount secured to, or formed as part of, theactuator. The driver will then slide to engage the mount, also makingelectrical contact through mutual electrical contacts on each portion.Thus, for example, a receiver in the driver package may slide along andagainst a rail or mount on the actuator package, thus making a totalsystem.

In certain embodiments, the actuator may include a gel pad and a backeror substrate. Typically, the gel pad may be formed of a thick butcompliant gel, which may or may not be placed in a matrix, such asfabric material, gridded polymeric base, sheet of plastic, stiff gel, orthe like. Typically, the backer then will mount transducers and on astiffer and more substantial mechanical support. The backer thus forms amechanical support for maintaining dimensional stability of the gel pad.

In certain embodiments, the system may include a latch for rapidsecurement and removal of the driver from the actuator. One benefit ofthis arrangement is that the gel pad, which includes an adhesiveportion, may contact and adhere to the skin of a user quite readily. Ifneeded, pressure may be applied in order to activate or secure theadhesive to the skin of a user. Thereupon, the latch system may beengaged to secure the driver to the actuator portion.

In certain embodiments, wires may extend through the backer in order toconnect piezoelectric transducers to the driver. The driver operates asa controller, by providing the electrical signals required by actuatorsto impose vibrations into the gel pad from the piezoelectric transducersas actuators on the backer.

In certain embodiments, a lanyard may be connected to a loop in order tosecure the system against dropping. For example, adhesives will not bedifficult to remove from the skin of a user. Accordingly, they may, intime, be degraded or otherwise caused to fail. Accordingly, one maysecure the device by a lanyard connected to a portion of clothing.

In certain embodiments, a mating edge may be formed to interface betweenthe driver and the actuator across a mount in order to secure the driverto the actuator. Meanwhile, inside the driver is a circuitry formed on acircuit board and driven by a battery. The battery also drives thepiezoelectric contacts in order to implement the frequency, periodicity,and the like of an aural sound, a vibration, or borth to be heard orotherwise sensed by a wearer. A timer module may be controlled bycontrol buttons available on the outside of the system.

An apparatus for training learning disabled subjects, such as autisticchildren, induces sound waves into a body of a user through two paths.One is sound heard through air and the other is a sound wave propagatedthrough at least one of liquid and solid in contact with tissues, suchas skin and underlying tissues of a wearer (subject). It has been foundthat the apparatus may be placed on the back to be inaccessible to awearer. The system and apparatus may provide a tone, typically having aconstant tonal frequency, but decaying over time. Repetition of the toneperiodically engages the attention of the wearer to concentrate at alocation in space dictated by the stereophonic nature of the sound.Having two transducers spaced apart and producing waves in the audiblesound spectrum, the system's persistent and external-seeming positionprovides orientation to learning disabled subjects.

The system may include one or more computers, processors, and othercomponents to implement the controller. The controller becomes part of adriver, made up of the controller, a protective housing around it,certain electronics within it, a processor, a battery powering it, andan a first engagement portion. The functions, steps, and decisions maybe implemented in a computer.

The engagement portion engages an actuator, comprising at least twotransducers. The engagement portion may have a complementary componenton the actuator to effect engagement. Engagement may render theconnection between the controller and the actuator either permanent orselectively separable.

The actuator typically comprises an adhesive surface opposite theengagement with the controller. This adhesive portion may be a gel pad,a filled matrix formed of an elastomeric polymer or a fabric, and afilling of some hydrogel that absorbs water to become tacky. Thus, thehydrogel may be cleaned somewhat and may be renewed by adding back waterthat evaporates or drying out excess water absorbed by exposure thereto.

The actuator's “second engagement portion” operably connects to thefirst engagement portion. This may be mechanical such as a fitted ormating pair of parts, glue, fasteners or the like. Selective securementand detachment of the first and second engagement portions with respectto each other provides for ease of application of the system to a wearer(subject). By removing the actuator (containing a substrate, securementsystem or second engagement portion, piezoelectric or otherelectromechanical transducers, and an adhesive pad such as a “gel”layer) from the controller, one may more easily see, manipulate,position, bend, press, and otherwise apply the actuator to the back of awearer (user, subject).

The gel portion of the actuator may act as a conductor of sound,coupling a surface of a tissue (e.g., skin) of a subject to thetransducers, selected to be at least two transducers in order the“throw” the sound so as to make it seem to originate near a locationabove and behind the head of the subject wearing the system.

The transducers are operably connected to the controller to oscillate ina range of frequencies corresponding to an audible range of a human. Theactuator is connected to the tissue in contact with one face of theactuator, and to the air opposite and in contact with the opposite faceof the actuator, in a way calculated to propagate a first sound wave,within the audible range, to the ears of the user (wearer, subject)through ambient air, and a second sound wave propagated by thetransducers directly through the gel pad (and possibly the substrate orframing of the actuator) to the tissues (soft tissues and bone) of thebody of a user.

The range may be selected to be from about 20 Hertz to about 20,000Hertz. A range that seems to work best is from about 3000 Hertz to about5000 Hertz, with a target of about 4000 Hertz. The controller isprogrammed (by hardware, software, or firmware) to control theoscillation of the transducers (usually at least two) with an energycorresponding to a sound volume audible through ambient air to a userwearing the apparatus. Hypersensitivity of some wearers militates foradjustable volume. Later, as they become oriented, it has been observedthat they often lose the hypersensitivity and thus can tolerate, or evenrequire a greater volume, available by setting the controller to provideit.

The controller is programmed to control the transducers to initiate afirst tone at a first time, to extend over a first period of time, at afirst volume of the tone during the first period of time. Meanwhile, thecontroller causes the transducers, operably connected thereto, toinitiate a second tone at a second time, to extend over a second periodof time. These may be modulated to create artifacts or features thatmake them appear to be (sound like) originating from a location aboveand behind the head of a wearer (user, subject).

The controller is programmed to impose a delay between the first timeand the second time, and then repeat the tone. Thus the first tone is atthe same frequency of sound as the second tone, and the volume of thetones decays during the first period of time. The controller isprogrammed to control an elapsed time, between the first time and thesecond time, and thus faithfully repeat a characteristic (or preferablyall of the characteristics) of the first tone. Characteristics ofinterest comprise duration, volume, delay, decay rate, and frequencycorresponding to the repetition thereof.

Thus, the controller may be programmed to produce the first tone throughthe at least two transducers to be substantially identical in frequencyand volume throughout the respective first and second time periodscorresponding thereto. The actuator, connected to the surface of thetissue through a contiguous path of material absent appreciable air(often comprising principally water, just as the body does) propagatesthe sound waves so generated directly into the body, whilesimultaneously propagating the tone through the air to be picked up bythe ears of the wearer as a sound originating a location away from theuser, always the same location.

The actuator may be built on or around a substrate of fabric, film,rubber, plastic, or the like. It may be cast, calendared, pressed,woven, non-woven, etc. It has a securement shaped and positioned toselectively engage at least one of the first engagement portion, thehousing, and the circuit board of the controller.

The actuator is thus operably securable to the controller to engage thecontroller mechanically and electrically. A battery in the controller(e.g., inside the housing) may power the electronics of the controlleras well as the transducers to cause them to oscillate. The piezoelectrictransducers, sized and positioned to produce sound waves through solids,liquids, and air may rely on a quantity of material (such as ahydro-gel, or water-based thixotropic or even a comparatively solidmaterial) positioned, sized, and shaped to secure the actuator to theskin of a subject.

A gel selected for testing was found to have high water absorption andadhesive properties effective to adhere to the subject. The gel wascompounded to provide a substantially contiguous and continuous path forsound waves, generated by the piezoelectric transducers, to conduct intothe subject.

The housing secures selectively to the actuator for operation.Connection to a circuit board (which may be the board hosting aprocessor, memory, and other peripheral or required components) shouldbe operable to communicate from the controller to the actuator. Thehousing may be shaped to receive or be received by a portion (e.g.mount, bracket, sleeve, way, slide, etc.) of the actuator to make thetwo (actuator and controller) selectively securable and removable.

In some embodiments, the actuator may be built right on or as anintegral part of the housing of the controller. This provides a smallpackage, but may benefit from being made of a softer (flexible,elastomeric) material for the housing to make better contact with a user(wearer).

Buttons on the outside of the controller's housing may be operablyconnected to receive inputs from an operator (e.g., caregiver,custodian, etc. of a subject who is learning disabled) and effective toalter (adjust, direct, program, etc.) operation of the controller.

A system in accordance with the invention thus enables a new method oftraining a learning disabled subject. By first providing one of theforegoing embodiments of a system in accordance with the invention(e.g., controller, actuator with piezoelectric transducers sized andpositioned to produce sound waves and propagate them toward a wearer bytwo directions and two modes (air to ear, and contact to body).

Securing the actuator to a subject may be followed by setting parameterscontrolling the controller. This occurs before securing the controllerto the actuator, and thus integrating the system on the user. One reasonfor the development of the system was to be able to locate in at alocation inaccessible by the user wearing it, yet fixed with respect tothe user.

In operation, the system generates a sound waveform (e.g., audible toneof constant frequency and decaying volume) effective to orient asubject, who lacks natural, self-orientation. The orienting sound isselected to be repeating from about every three to about every 20seconds initially. A suitable target for repetition period has beenabout 8 seconds. The user hears the sound (apparently) from a remotelocation above and behind a center of the head of a user. Typically itis a location behind the head and just above eye level. In otherembodiments it is about six inches (15 cm) above and about the samedistance behind the head of a user wearer.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing and other objects and features of the present inventionwill become more fully apparent from the following description andappended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.Understanding that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of theinvention and are, therefore, not to be considered limiting of itsscope, the invention will be described with additional specificity anddetail through use of the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a computer system, including anindividual computer having a processor, memory, and other elements,connected to a network, that network connects to various other computersor nodes, and to an internetwork;

FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of one embodiment of a NaturalOrientation Induction Tool (NOIT) system, where front, back, top,bottom, right, and left are viewed from the perspective of a wearer;

FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of one embodiment of the basicactuator portion or actuator assembly thereof;

FIGS. 4A and 4B are rear, perspective, exploded views of alternativeembodiments thereof;

FIG. 5 is a top, rear, perspective view of details of the mount fromFIG. 3;

FIG. 6 is a bottom, end, plan view thereof, showing the tab andlatching;

FIG. 7 is a rear, elevation view of the driver that connects (by themount) to the actuator to form the Natural Orientation Induction Tool(NOIT) of FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 is a front, elevation view thereof;

FIG. 9 is a bottom, plan view thereof;

FIG. 10 is a left, side, elevation, exploded view thereof;

FIG. 11 is a schematic block diagram of the piezoelectric transducerscontrolled by modules executing on a processor in accordance withoperator controls;

FIG. 12 is a rear elevation view of the Natural Orientation InductionTool in place on the back of a subject;

FIG. 13 is a rear, elevation view of the actuator assembly;

FIG. 14 is a top plan view thereof in a first embodiment presenting thepiezoelectric transducers on the back surface of the substrate of theactuator assembly;

FIG. 15 is a top plan view thereof in a second embodiment presenting thepiezoelectric transducers on the front surface of the substrate of theactuator assembly;

FIG. 16 is a top, plan view thereof in a first embodiment presenting thepiezoelectric transducers embedded inside the substrate of the actuatorassembly;

FIG. 17 is a rear, elevation view of an integrated embodiment (version)of a system in accordance with the invention, presenting thepiezoelectric transducers and actuator assembly embedded or built on tothe back surface of the driver;

FIG. 18 is a front, elevation view thereof;

FIG. 19 is a top, plan view thereof;

FIG. 20 is a top, plan, schematic view of a piezoelectric transducer ofFIG. 14 inducing sound waves to and into a user;

FIG. 21 is a top, plan, schematic view of a piezoelectric transducer ofFIG. 15 inducing sound waves to and into a user;

FIG. 22 is a schematic block diagram of a process of learning andresponding as a result of stimulus;

FIG. 23 is a schematic block diagram of a process implemented by anapparatus in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 24 is a schematic block diagram undergone by a subject during theprocess of FIG. 23;

FIG. 25 is a schematic block diagram of additional details of a processpartially overlapping and consequent to the process of FIG. 24; and

FIG. 26 is a schematic block diagram of a weaning process includingmultiple, individual outcomes from the processes of FIGS. 23 through 25.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

It will be readily understood that the components of the presentinvention, as generally described and illustrated in the drawingsherein, could be arranged and designed in a wide variety of differentconfigurations. Thus, the following more detailed description of theembodiments of the system and method of the present invention, asrepresented in the drawings, is not intended to limit the scope of theinvention, but is merely representative of various embodiments of theinvention. The illustrated embodiments of the invention will be bestunderstood by reference to the drawings, wherein like parts aredesignated by like numerals throughout.

Referring to FIG. 1, an apparatus 10 or system 10 for implementing thepresent invention may include one or more nodes 12 (e.g., client 12,computer 12). Such nodes 12 may contain a processor 14 or CPU 14. TheCPU 14 may be operably connected to a memory device 16. A memory device16 may include one or more devices such as a hard drive 18 or othernon-volatile storage device 18, a read-only memory 20 (ROM 20), and arandom access (and usually volatile) memory 22 (RAM 22 or operationalmemory 22). Such components 14, 16, 18, 20, 22 may exist in a singlenode 12 or may exist in multiple nodes 12 remote from one another.

In selected embodiments, the apparatus 10 may include an input device 24for receiving inputs from a user or from another device. Input devices24 may include one or more physical embodiments. For example, a keyboard26 may be used for interaction with the user, as may a mouse 28 orstylus pad 30. A touch screen 32, a telephone 34, or simply atelecommunications line 34, may be used for communication with otherdevices, with a user, or the like. Similarly, a scanner 36 may be usedto receive graphical inputs, which may or may not be translated to otherformats. A hard drive 38 or other memory device 38 may be used as aninput device whether resident within the particular node 12 or someother node 12 connected by a network 40. In selected embodiments, anetwork card 42 (interface card) or port 44 may be provided within anode 12 to facilitate communication through such a network 40.

In certain embodiments, an output device 46 may be provided within anode 12, or accessible within the apparatus 10. Output devices 46 mayinclude one or more physical hardware units. For example, in general, aport 44 may be used to accept inputs into and send outputs from the node12. Nevertheless, a monitor 48 may provide outputs to a user forfeedback during a process, or for assisting two-way communicationbetween the processor 14 and a user. A printer 50, a hard drive 52, orother device may be used for outputting information as output devices46.

Internally, a bus 54, or plurality of buses 54, may operablyinterconnect the processor 14, memory devices 16, input devices 24,output devices 46, network card 42, and port 44. The bus 54 may bethought of as a data carrier. As such, the bus 54 may be embodied innumerous configurations. Wire, fiber optic line, wirelesselectromagnetic communications by visible light, infrared, and radiofrequencies may likewise be implemented as appropriate for the bus 54and the network 40.

In general, a network 40 to which a node 12 connects may, in turn, beconnected through a router 56 to another network 58. In general, nodes12 may be on the same network 40, adjoining networks (i.e., network 40and neighboring network 58), or may be separated by multiple routers 56and multiple networks as individual nodes 12 on an internetwork. Theindividual nodes 12 may have various communication capabilities. Incertain embodiments, a minimum of logical capability may be available inany node 12. For example, each node 12 may contain a processor 14 withmore or less of the other components described hereinabove.

A network 40 may include one or more servers 60. Servers 60 may be usedto manage, store, communicate, transfer, access, update, and the like,any practical number of files, databases, or the like for other nodes 12on a network 40. Typically, a server 60 may be accessed by all nodes 12on a network 40. Nevertheless, other special functions, includingcommunications, applications, directory services, and the like, may beimplemented by an individual server 60 or multiple servers 60. Processesand steps herein may be implemented in modules executing on a processor14.

In general, a node 12 may need to communicate over a network 40 with aserver 60, a router 56, or other nodes 12. Similarly, a node 12 may needto communicate over another neighboring network 58 in an internetworkconnection with some remote node 12. Likewise, individual components mayneed to communicate data with one another. A communication link mayexist between any pair of components. Modules in memory 16 may executeany steps on processors 12.

Referring to FIG. 2, a Natural Orientation Induction Tool (NOIT) 70 hasbeen the subject of field testing for the research group of parents andseverely autistic children. The unit is very light weight and can easilybe placed on the child's back, or worn under clothing, in a place whereit is not likely to be dislodged by the child's other movements.

All the conclusions concerning the effectiveness and use of any systemcannot be made until many events and years of experience have beencompleted. Nevertheless, the systems have 70 been found by many subjects136 (wearers 136) and their caregivers (operators), who typicallyoperate the NOIT, to provide substantiation of the theory and operation.For example, subjects who cannot be oriented through instruction or arenot ready to work with a facilitator, may wear the NOIT device and playback a tone to the wearer 136 (subject 136).

For example, a parent will typically allow a child to wear the NOIT 70for as long a period in each day as the child is willing to permit. Insome embodiments, the NOIT 70 may project music over a tone.Nevertheless, in a most energy efficient configuration, the system 70need only generate a periodic tone. That is, a tone must be delivered toa child in a way that its apparent position can be sensed consistently,regardless of the location or position of that wearer 136. It does notsuffice to play the tone externally, such as over speakers in a room. Ifa child is in a room, then movement of the child changes the relativelocation from which the tone emanates.

In order for auditory orientation to work, a source of sound must remainthe same in relation to the child and the child's perception, regardlessof which way the child turns. Thus, it has been found that it ispossible for a person to hear sounds, clearly and accurately, withoutrelying on a device attached to the ears. Hearing is initially amechanical process that results in the neural signal to the brainreceived from a mechanical system of tiny bones connected to the eardrumin the ear. Those bones, connected to the ear drum, convert vibrationsin the surrounding air through motion, transmitted by the drum into theseries of bones.

Vibrations need not come from surrounding air to the surface of theears. In certain embodiments of an apparatus and method in accordancewith the invention, an electronic device may be sized to be about thesize of a portable MP3 player. A pair of transducers function similarlyto speakers.

The system 70 is attached to a small, adhesive pad 94, which can beaffixed to the skin 139 of a person's body. Sound vibrations are thentransmitted through surrounding air, as well as through the skin andbody. An individual has the sense of being surrounded by the sound. Asthe sound volume is low and the tone is intermittent, this has not shownto be an overwhelming experience for the autistic subject 136. It issimply an alternate way to enable the child 136 to hear a singlerepeated tone from a consistent location (relative to the user 136) in aconsistent way.

The NOIT 70 or system 70 includes the driver 72 and an actuator 74. Thedriver 72 has the function or responsibility to provide the timing,inputs, receive controlling inputs, setting up the tone, the frequencyof repetition, the delay time therebetween, and so forth. In certainembodiments, the frequency of the tone may be preselected and may belimited in a particular system 70 to a single frequency.

Meanwhile, the frequency of repetition of the intermittent tone may bepreselected, may be modified, and may be made in steps. For example, inone embodiment, the tone is played for less than a second, in others forseven seconds as its volume decays, and is repeated every eight seconds,or other time.

Meanwhile, the delay time may be set to last from one to eight seconds,or multiples of eight seconds. However, a user, such as a caregiver, mayreset the repetition frequency to repeat at multiples of eight secondsor another increment, such as within sixteen seconds, thirty twoseconds, twenty four seconds, and so forth.

In the illustrated embodiment, the driver 72 is provided with a label76, which may be useful to the reader herein as an indicator of theorientation of the system 70 in the various figures. A top 78 or back 78of a case 80 may have the label 76 printed thereon, or molded therein.

In general, the case 80 may be formed of a top 78 (or back 78) and abottom 82, base 82, or front 82. Various buttons 84, 86, 88 may beprovided for operation by a user. For example, a button 84 may be usedfor decreasing the volume of the sound, or altering the operational modeof the system 70. Similarly, the button 86 may be used to increment upthe volume of the sound signal, the timing of the signal, or alter themode of operation thereof. Of course, other buttons 88 may be provided,such as a power button 88, or button 88 for other functionality.Likewise, the buttons 84, 86, 88 may be used in combinations in order toaccomplish various other functionality.

For example, clicking a button 88 may turn the power on or off. Holdinga button 88 may instead change the functionality of the buttons 84, 86,or both. Likewise, holding the button 88 may turn the power on or off,depending on the condition at the time the button 88 is pressed. In suchan embodiment, clicks, whether short single clicks, multiple clicks, orthe like, may be used to transition to various other functionalities orto change the operation of the buttons 84, 86.

In certain embodiments, the apparatus 70 or system 70 may be providedwith a port 89, such as a standard USB port. Accordingly, programming ofthe system 70 or system 70 may be done on an external computer system 12which may then treat the system 70 as simply a peripheral or anappendage. Typically, a computer 10 may access the system 70 in order toread information, write information, install programs, download orupload data, or any combination thereof.

In other embodiments, an entire computer may actually be built into thedriver 72 of the system 70. In certain embodiments, visual displays,data processing, representations of information, and the like may beprovided by software programmed into a computer 12, and executed basedon data downloaded through the port 89 to or from the driver 72.

A mount 90 may provide mechanical, electrical, electronic, orcombination interface 90 to connect the driver 72 to the actuator 74.One benefit of a mount 90 is the ability to replace damaged or worncomponents. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, a receiver 91 isformed as an opening in a case 88 of the driver 72. The mount 90 issecured by gluing, bonding, or other fastening mechanism to or as partof the backer 96 or substrate 96. Typically, a tab 92, forming a part ofthe mount 90 may be used to release the driver 72 from engagement withthe mount 90. Accordingly, a relative sliding motion initiated betweenthe driver 72 and actuator 74 by a user may remove the driver 72 fromthe mount 90, and thus from the backer 96.

Referring to FIG. 3, the system 70, upon removal of the driver 72,leaves behind the actuator 74. The rail 90 or mount 90 is shown securedto the actuator 74. In certain embodiments, one may think of a mount 90as a part of the actuator 74. For example, the mount 90 provides anattachment that can used for securing the driver 72 to the actuator 74in order to form a system 70.

The base 98 of the mount 90 may be configured to leave the tab 92 freelyextending from the mount 90, and spaced away from the backer 96 of theactuator 74. In this embodiment, the driver 72 may slide along the mount90 parallel to the actuator 74, until engaging a latch 102 of the tab92. Release of the driver 72 may be effected by depressing or otherwisemoving the tab 92, thereby moving the latch 102 out of a matchedreceiver 91 or recess 91 in the case 80 of the driver 72.

The mount 74 may have contacts 100 effective to make electrical contactwith the power and electronics within the driver 72. The contacts 100permit transmission of power, data, voltage, signals, or a combinationto the actuator 74. In some embodiments, the actuator 74 may include nointelligence or processing, and may receive only power. Nevertheless, itmay be advisable to, at a minimum, monitor activity or control of theactuator 74.

The mount 90 is shown secured to the surface 103 of the backer 96. Thismay be thought of as the outer surface 103 of the backer 96. Oppositethe surface 103 of the backer 96 is a gel pad 94. The gel pad 94 may beconstituted by various components, including a rubber-like, polymericgel treated with an adhesive, or an actual gel embedded in a or othermatrix and having adhesive properties.

The functions of the gel pad 94 or pad 94 include transmission ofmechanical vibrations as transmitted sound from the backer 96 to theskin and skeletal structure of a subject. Likewise, the pad 94 may beconfigured to be easily conformable and comfortable for wear by a wearer(subject).

Referring to FIGS. 4A and 4B, an exploded view of the actuator 74illustrates the pad 94 having been separated and offset from the backer96. This renders visible the piezoelectric transducers 104 integratedinto the backer 96. Typically, wires 106 are connected through thebacker 96 to the contacts 100 of the mount 90.

Thus, a voltage wave applied to the piezoelectric transducers 104 causesa vibration dictated by the frequency of the change in voltageintroduced by the wires 106 to the transducers 104. The transducers 104may be attached on an outer surface 103 or an inner surface 108 of thebacker 96, or may actually be formed therein or thereon as amanufacturing technique. The transducers 104 in turn, may vibrateagainst the surface 112 of, and thus through, the gel pad 94.Alternatively they 104 may be embedded with a gel and be more directlyin contact with the skin of a wearer.

Meanwhile, the surface 110 of the pad 94 is provided with adhesive. Theadhesive on the surface 110 of the pad 94 may be the gel from which theentire pad 94 is made. In alternative embodiments, a rubber-like gel (asopposed to a thixotropic or other true gel), may have dimensionalstability, and yet flexibility, including compressibility. Thus, anadhesive layer on the surface 110 may secure the pad 94, or may effectsecuring the actuator 74 to the back of a subject (wearer).

Referring to FIG. 5, the rail 90 or slide 90 may include severalfunctional features, including the release tab 92, which, when pressed,moves the latch 102 downward, that is, into the page, as illustrated.This moves a latch 102 out of a detaining position in the bottom of thedriver 72, permitting release, and a parallel sliding motion of thedriver 72 from the actuator 74.

In the illustrated embodiment, a specific shape may be formed on theedge 114 of the base 98 of the rail 90 or mount 90. In the illustratedembodiment, the edge 114 is simply tapered such that it forms a slide114 and may be received into a matching shape. For example, the edge 114may be formed to be convex, while a concavity in a matching slot willreceive that edge 114 into the driver 72.

Referring to FIG. 6, the edge 114 is illustrated to operate much as a“way” or “slide” of a machine tool, such as a lathe. By tapering theedge 114, tolerances may be relaxed, while precision may still beachieved to the degree necessary. In the view of FIG. 6, the relief 116or space 116 below the tab 92 illustrates the space 116 into which thetab 92 may be moved upon being depressed by the finger of a user.

Meanwhile, the latch 102 is seen protruding from the tab 92, as a catch102 to retain the mount 90, and thus the actuator 74 securely to thedriver 72.

Referring to FIG. 7, the rear view of the system 70 is taken from theorientation of the system 70 sitting on a vertical surface, such as aback of a user. In reality, the view represents a more vertical than atrue back view, if considered from the point of view of the wearer(subject). In this embodiment, the rear 78 of the case 80 is seen in anassembled configuration, of the driver 72, with the actuator 74 absent.Thus, the physical module 72 that constitutes the driver 72 may beremoved from the actuator so the actuator 74 can be serviced orreplaced, the driver 72 can be programmed, and so forth. Thus, one mayrely on an external computer 12 operating through the USB port 89 toprogram a driver 72. One may then simply hand the driver 72 to a user tobe combined with an actuator 74 as a system 70. Thus, the actuator 74may be a disposable device in certain embodiment.

In other embodiments, the actuator 74 may simply have the adhesive pad94 replaced or renewed. For example, the substrate 96 may be formed of aflexible but strong polymeric material, such as a plastic. Polyethylene,polypropylene, PET (polyethylene terephthalate, sometimes known by tradename Mylar™), or the like may serve well. Thus, the entire pad 94 may bestripped off the backer 96.

In other embodiments, the pad 94 may be formed of a very compliant,soft, rubber material, whether synthetic or natural. This material mayform to the pad 94 to have a sufficiently low durometer rating as to behighly compliant, and very comfortable. Added to this, the surface 110may receive an adhesive. In other embodiments, the entire pad 94represents an adhesive hydro gel. That is, certain materials will absorbsubstantial water, and become tacky to the touch. Thus, a hydro geladhesive may form the entire pad 94, the adhesive on the surface 110, orthe like.

In certain embodiments, a loop 118 may be formed as part of the case 80in order to secure the system 70 against being dropped, lost, damaged,or the like. The loop 118 may be replaced by a lanyard directlyconnected otherwise to the case 80. In the illustrated embodiment, theloop 118 is sized to easily receive a lanyard or tether that may then besecured to an article of clothing, or the like to secure againstseparation, dropping, or other loss.

Referring to FIGS. 8-10, the driver 72 may be provided with a slot 91 orreceiver 91 shaped and sized to receive the rail 90 or mount 90 securedto the backer 96. A sliding motion of the driver 72 with respect to theactuator 74 may engage the rail 90 in the slide receiver 91.

An aperture 120 may be formed as a recess, or a blind hole within thematerial of the base 82 or front 82 of the case 80 of the driver 72. Inother embodiments, the aperture 120 may be a through hole passing allthe way through the material of the base 82 of the case 80.

A tapered edge on the latch 102 may depress the tab 92 as the relativemotion between the rail 90 on the backer 96 of the actuator 74 continueswith respect to the case 80 of the driver 72. Accordingly, the tab 92will depress, the latch 102 will be permitted to pass under the aperture120, until the latch 102 may snap back up into the aperture 120, thuslocking the rail 90 and actuator 74 against removal from the driver 72.

This sliding motion also places into contact with one another, theelectrical contacts 100 on the mount 90 or rail 90 against contacts 122on the driver 72. Thus, the driver 72 may pass electrical signals andcurrent through the contacts 122 into the contacts 100, and thus intothe transducers 104 of the actuator 74.

Referring to FIG. 10, while continue to refer to FIGS. 7-10, and FIGS.1-12 generally, a case 80 may house various components for providingpower and signals to the actuator 74. In the illustrated embodiment, thebase 82 or bottom 82 of the case 80 may house a battery 124. The battery124 may be electrically and mechanically connected to a circuit board126. The circuit board 126 may include any amount of intelligence, froma simple switching function to frequency generation of power signals, topower transfer, or complete processor logic. The circuit board 126 maythus include various chips, connectors, pathways, and so forth asdiscussed hereinabove.

In one embodiment, the electrical connections may be formed by contacts,while in other embodiments, wires may complete connections. Typically,the port 89 may be mounted to the circuit board 126. All electronics andelectrical connections with systems outside the case 80 maybe mademechanically with the circuit board 126, as well as electrically. Forexample, the contacts 122 may simply be represented by a portion of thecircuit board 126 exposed in the slot 91.

A tactile button 128 may fit on a circuit board 126 under each of thebuttons 84, 86. In this way, the circuit board 126 may be contacted orengaged directly, by a simple touch to the buttons 84, 86, which maysimply be mechanical, flexible tabs 84, 86, formed as part of the case80.

The back 78 or cover 78 may be separated from the base 82 or frontportion 82 in order to replace the battery 124 periodically. In otherembodiments, the port 89 may be accessed in order to recharge thebattery 124 from a device, such as a computer, transformer, or powersupply external to the system 70. In other embodiments, the system 70may include a power supply connectible to the port 89 for the specificpurpose of recharging.

Meanwhile, the port 89, if configured as a USB port may receive bothcharging power for the battery 124, as well as information beingdownloaded to or uploaded from the system 70, including programs or databeing uploaded or download to or from the system 70 to a computer forprocessing.

Referring to FIG. 11, in one embodiment of the system 70 in accordancewith the invention, a processor 14 may be mounted to the circuit board126. That processor 14 may be provided with memory 16 operably connectedtherein by any mechanism known in the art, or as described hereinabove.Meanwhile, the processor 14 may execute a timer module 130 providingtiming.

Typically, the timer module 130 may operate off a clock in a processor14, thereby operating to control the transducers 104 in accordance withcontrols input by various control buttons 132. For example, as describedhereinabove, the buttons 84, 86, 88 may be used individually, ortogether, or both as the control buttons 132 in order to program theprocessor 14. The timer module 130 may execute controls delivering toeach of the piezoelectric transducers 104 a signal (e.g., waveform)causing a cyclical mechanical motion inducing vibration transmittedthrough the pad 94 to a user 136.

An example of program flow in one embodiment of a CPU 14 or the like ina driver 72 (controller 72) in a system 70 may meet the overall purposeof the program to produce a repeated sound at a selected volume and witha selected time interval between repetitions. The program performsseveral functions simultaneously: 1) monitor control buttons 132, 2)when playing sound, transfer audio data from a memory 16 to a timer 130to produce the output waveform, and 3) when not playing sound, keeptrack of the time delay to determine when to start playing the nextrepetition of the sound. In addition to the repeated sound, the programmay select other sounds to play, in order to provide audio feedback tothe user to confirm the user's operation of the control buttons.

In one embodiment, two control buttons 84, 86. When pressed one at atime, increase or decrease the volume, respectively. This is confirmedby the system 70 outputting a spoken number from 1 to 7. When bothbuttons 84, 86 are pressed simultaneously, the system 70 enters adelay-selection mode. The next delay is selected automatically. Theselection is confirmed by the system 70 outputting a voice saying“Delay” and a number corresponding to the length of the delay. Pressinga certain combination of the buttons 84, 86 will increase or decreasethe delay. The sound is decaying after about one to two seconds tosilence at approximately seven seconds. The delay intervals are selectedso that there is a multiple of 8 seconds between initiation of thesound. So the shortest delay plays the sound every 8 seconds, withalmost no delay. The next-shortest causes the sound to be played every16 seconds. Then, 32, 64, 128, 256, and 512 seconds.

Information about volume and delay is stored in non-volatile memory 16so that the system 70 is in the same mode after it is turned off andback on.

In one implementation, the CPU's timer module has a comparison function.The timer is set to repeatedly count from 0 to 255, and will change thestate of output wires depending on whether the timer value is eitherhigher or lower than a configured value. The timer completes eachcounting cycle approximately 40,000 times per second (every 25microseconds). During that time, the next value to be configured is readout of non-volatile memory and written to the timer.

Thus, sound encoded by a series of numbers (e.g. the “RAW” output typeof music editing software) will produce a pulse-width-modulated outputwhere the width of each pulse is proportional to the number. The circuitthus implements the output stage of a Class D amplifier. Volume changemay be implemented simply by storing multiple copies of the sound atdifferent volumes.

Two timers may be used in order to produce two-channel output. Eachtimer has two output wires configured to produce the inverse waveform ofeach other. The output signal on those pins is used to directly drivepiezoelectric transducers 104 (discs 104) through a resistor.

In certain embodiments, the circuit board 126 may be implemented as acomparatively simple circuit with certain control elements and logic inorder to execute its various functionalities. For example, in onecurrently contemplated embodiment, the circuit board 126 may includevarious components including a processor 14, memory 16, controllersoftware, and the like. As a practical matter, the various modules 130may include more than a timer module 130, but may include variousmodules for accomplishing various functionality.

For example, the computer 12 of FIG. 1 may be completely implemented onthe circuit board 126 and peripheral equipment or components connectedthereto. The components 127 may include any or all of thefunctionalities identified with respect to the computer 12 of FIG. 1.Multiple processors 14, various types of memory 16 from a hard drive 18to ROM 20, RAM 22, and the like may be encased within the case 80 andassociated with the circuit board 126 and peripherals operationallyconnected thereto.

For example, the port 89 may include access to output devices 46, orvarious output devices 46 may be included within the components 127.Moreover, various input devices 24 or access to such input devices 24may be included on the circuit board 126, or connected operably thereto.Thus, access to a network 40 through a network card 42 and in accordancewith the required protocols may be implemented in order to connect thesystem 70 to include the network 40, other networks 58, additional nodes12, routers 56, servers 60, and so forth.

The system 70 may be programmed directly at manufacture. Alternatively,the system 70 may be programmed and reprogrammed at will through theport 89 or a network card 42, or the like over a network 40 or directlythrough a computer 12 on board. Similarly, data may be downloadedthrough the port 89, network card 42, or both, in both directions to andfrom the system 70.

The components 127 may be augmented by modules 131 in order to implementprogramming of the system 70 to control operation thereof, updatinginformation, schedules, control parameters, and other data, or todownload recorded information such as operation times, delays, usagetimes, and so forth.

In certain embodiments, the piezoelectric transducers 104 may alsooperate in reverse (as sensors) periodically in order to record or sensemotions of a user 136. Similarly, various components 127 may includemotion detection devices, the outputs of which may be processed by theprogrammed instructions of various modules 131 in order to ascertainmotion, speed, acceleration, and the like indicating activities of auser 136. From these activities, and the recordings of such information,automatic or self-stimming activities, calm, sleep, normal motion, andthe like may actually be detected.

Thus, in certain embodiments, the functionality programmed into themodules 131 executing in the CPU, and stored in various memory devices16 may provide programming, instructions or controls to the apparatus70, and collection of data regarding a user 136, the apparatus 70, orboth over some period of time. By connecting through a port 89, networkcard 42, or other port 44, another computer 12 connected to the computer12 of the apparatus 70 may interact to provide programming, provideinformation, provide analysis, or download data collected thereby.

Thus, one may think of the system 70 as including a circuit board 126 orthe like that implements and forms the central hardware of a computer 12as illustrated in FIG. 1. This computer 12, on the circuit board 126,and connected peripherals or other components 127 may thus implement anyof the functionalities in any of the structures identified in thecomputer 12 of FIG. 1. Similarly, through a port 89, network card 42, orthe like, the system 70 may communicate information out, information in,analysis, and the like in order to implement uploads of data, datacollection, control, programming, and the like.

The sound itself to be replicated by the system 70 has been recorded ina special way so that the sound does not appear to be coming from thespeaker (transducer) 104. The sound is originally recorded as a tonemuch like that of a bell as used in a bell choir. The tones are audible,mild, penetrating, and decay over time.

In one embodiment, the time period between tones may be set at a valueof from about three to about twenty seconds. An effective target valueis about eight seconds. During the time period of the tone, the tone isreproduced at about its maximum value for from about one half to abouttwo seconds. A target value is about one to one a half seconds. In onecurrently demonstrated embodiment, the sound appears to generate at itsmaximum volume, (set by an operator) for about a target value of one andone half seconds. Thereafter, the sound decays out to a time of aboutseven seconds after initiation. Thus for a periodicity of eight seconds,approximately one second of complete silence persists before the soundis repeated.

In recording sound, one objective is to provide the artifacts orfeatures of the sound in such a way that they appear to be the same asif they had been experienced through a set of stereo headphones. Thus,beyond “stereo” effects, even effects that cannot be known norunderstood are replicated by physical modeling. For example,notwithstanding the piezoelectric transducers are not located at theears, the various artifacts of the sound may be so generated byrecording them as if they were heard at the ears of a person.

Specifically, a model of the upper part of the body, such as theshoulders, neck, and head of a user may be replicated in a material thatis synthetic, but provides approximately the same sound attenuation(e.g., deadening) as the human body. For example, a model of plastileneclay was created, including the shape of the head and the shape of theears. Recording devices were placed at a position corresponding to aneardrum in each ear. Thus, sound generated had to pass around the head,reflect from the outer ear, and propagate down through the ear canal tothe location of the eardrums. At the location of the eardrums, recordingmicrophones were placed to record the sound waves received.

Sound was generated behind the model head, and above the line of sight.Thus, all artifacts, known and unknown, of the recorded soundcorresponded to what the ears would detect upon hearing a soundgenerated above and behind the head of a user.

When the sound is played back or regenerated by the piezoelectrictransducers, the artifacts of that sound imposed by the geometry of thehead, of the position of the sound generator (e.g., bell tone), and therelative position of all the constituents including the eardrums, earcanal, and geometry of the head, and so forth, result in a sound wavereceived by the microphones at the eardrum locations having considerablecomplexity, which has been accommodated by the details in the physicalmodeling.

Thus, upon regeneration of the sound, all its artifacts exist to anextent sufficient to affect the mind of a hearer, or the interpretationby the mind of a hearer, at the location originally sourced for thesound. Stated another way, due to the artifacts of the sound wavesdetected at the location of the eardrums, the perception of the mindupon a replay or regeneration of the sound is that the sound seems tooriginate from behind the head above the line of sight.

A sound file is created that generates a sound in a manner to make itappear to a subject (user) 136 as if the sound were coming fromsomewhere else. Part of this process amounts to creating a stereophonicsound. Stereophonic sound is created by using multiple speakers.However, sonic waves 137 are also propagated directly into the bodywhere they may be sensed.

Here multiple piezoelectric transducers 104 oscillate at frequenciesthat are within the audible range of frequencies. In this way, theactual piezoelectric transducers oscillate at a frequency that generatesa sound wave that may be heard.

On the other hand, the piezoelectric transducers 104 may also be mountedso that at least one surface of each propagates in a sound and motiontransmissive medium (e.g., water-based gel, a thixotropic material) thatsubstantially eliminates air. For example, an adhesive may be formedagainst, around, or both with respect to the piezoelectric transducers.This gel also adheres to the skin of a user.

Typically, the location of the NOIT 70 is near the top of the shoulderblades as to vertical location, and centered across the spinal columnwith respect to horizontal position. In this position, the piezoelectrictransducers 104 not only produce an audible sound that a wearer(subject, user) can hear through the ears as transmitted throughairborne sound, but also transmitted through the carrier (primarilywater through the gel and through tissues) to the bodily structure,including skeletal structure, of the wearer 136.

Sound produced by the piezoelectric transducers 104 is stored in anelectronic file. Some version of that signal is stored in a file in sucha way that it may be reproduced by manipulating the voltage (modulatingthe voltage) applied to the piezoelectric transducers 104.

A digitized version of recorded sound from the bell or chime source iseventually translated into signals stored in a memory 16. A processor 14may read the digital file and control driving of the piezoelectric discs104 or piezoelectric transducers 104. These may be configured ascomparatively thinner (on the order of under 1/16 inch) discs ofcomparatively larger diameter (on the order of about 1 inch diameter).This size is effective in order to reproduce the generation offrequencies corresponding to the original sound 137. The piezoelectrictransducers 104, on the other hand, not only produce an audible sound,but also produce compression waves or pressure waves in the adhesive gel94. That sound 137 a or sonic waves 137 a may then be transmitteddirectly into the skin 139, tissues 138, and skeletal structures of auser 136.

In certain embodiments, a NOIT 70 may include a comparatively simplecircuit board 126. For example, instead of a continuous volume control,a button 84, 86 may permit a person (e.g., facilitator, caregiver,administrator, etc.) to simply select one of various values of volume.Typically, volume may be set in steps, each incremented to increase thevolume linearly. In other embodiments, the volume may be increased in abinary format, with each volume setting being twice as great as the nextvolume lower. Thus, an initial volume having a comparative value ofunity may be doubled repeatedly to become up to the seventh or otherpower. One embodiment of the NOIT 70 adjusts from unity up to a maximumat a seventh level. In one currently implemented embodiment, a maximumand minimum acceptable level may be selected, and subdivided such thatthe lowest level corresponds to unity and the maximum level correspondsto two to a power of seven. It has been found that having more thanseven levels is not necessary. However, more options may be provided.

The timing between subsequent transmissions of sound and tactilestimulus may be set at a variety of values. It has been found that atarget value of about eight seconds seems to work best. Times less thanabout four or five seconds do not appear to be as effective. Timesgreater than 10 or 12 seconds do not appear to be as effectiveinitially. However, later, extended times may place the sound signalsseveral minutes apart. For example, over time, as natural orientation ofan individual 136 occurs, an individual subject 136 (user, listener) maynot need the NOIT 70 signal as frequently to obtain or maintainorientation. Thus, as a weaning process begins, the delay time betweensubsequent or adjacent stimuli 137 may be extended. It has been foundthat these may best be accomplished in a binary fashion. Thus, thetarget value of about eight seconds has been found suitable for a firstlevel of delay. A second level of delay doubles the original level ofdelay. The next level doubles the former, and so forth. Thus, up toabout two to the sixth or even eighth power may be used as a multiplierfor extending the delay between adjacent initiations of the generationof the sound.

The NOIT 70 appears to work by itself. Therapy in working with learningdisabled subjects 136 (wearers 136) may then take advantage of thenatural orientation provided by the NOIT 70. The stimuli 137 (e.g.,aural 137 b and tactile 137 a) of the NOIT 70 effectively appears todraw attention or “drag” the “mind's eye,” to the key point about whichthe sound 137 appears to originate. As a direct result, the persistenceof the signal, appearing inexorably and periodically, provides a respitetime after which the signal repeats. The persistence itself, not overlyintrusive, but ever present, appears to provide an orientation ofattention, the mind's eye, that includes the perception by the user 136of the individual presence of that wearer 136 along with a more accurateand orderly perception of the other stimuli perceived by all the sensesin the normal course of life.

Referring to FIG. 12, a subject 136 is shown, with a system 70 installedslightly below the collar of the subject 136. In this embodiment, therelative size and placement of the actuator 74 and the driver 72 can beseen as not trivial, but not overly intrusive. For example, in theillustrated embodiment, the diameter of the piezoelectric transducers104 may be from about one quarter to about 2 inches. However, it hasbeen found that a target design of about a one inch diameter has proveneffective so far in field trials.

A participant manual is used by a caregiver to a user 136 (wearer 136)in applying the system 70 to a subject 136 (user 136, wearer 136). Afacilitator manual is similarly provided for a facilitator. Afacilitator coordinates and directs a user or caregiver in the use ofthe system 70 applied to a subject 136. Accordingly, these manualsdescribe the processes of installation, methods of use, methods of datacollection, reporting, and so forth.

Referring to FIG. 13, and FIGS. 13 through 21 generally, a system 70 inaccordance with the invention may have the actuator 74 and the pad 94 orpad assembly 94, sometimes referred to as the gel pad 94 or gel padassembly 94 configured in any of several suitable ways. for example, thepiezoelectric transducers 104 may be on the face 103 or surface 103 ofthe substrate 96. In certain embodiments, the substrate 96 or backer 96may be positioned between the piezoelectric transducers 104 and the gellayer 96. For example, in order to improve the transmissivity of sonicwaves generated by the piezoelectric transducers 104 through theactuator 74, and into the tissues 138 of a wearer 136, it may bebeneficial to place the piezoelectric transducers 104 as close to theskin 139 of a user 136 as possible. Likewise, it may be advisable orbeneficial to position the piezoelectric transducers 104 as close to orwithin the gel layer 94 or gel pad 94 to eliminate intervening air.

In this embodiment, the backer 96 or substrate 96 is as illustrated inFIG. 4. Here, the piezoelectric transducers 104 are on the front face103 or surface 103 of the substrate 96 that will contain the mount 90interfacing with the case 80 and the circuit board 126.

Referring to FIG. 14, a top plan view or edge view of an assembly 97illustrates the stack up of the various components. For example, themount 90 is secured to the backer 96 or substrate 96. Similarly, thesubstrate 96 may itself be formed of a compliant elastomeric material.Piezoelectric transducers 104 are secured to the backer 96, andconnected to the mount 90 by the wires 106. Meanwhile, the gel layer 94or gel pad 94 constitutes a material that is responsible to interfacebetween the user 136 and the piezoelectric transducers 104. It may be ahydrogel gel, or the like. Typically, it should be an adhesive material,may include a composition, and may be a layer 94 treated with anadhesive on a front surface 112.

Meanwhile, a rear surface 110 may likewise be adhesive and secured to orformed into the substrate 96. Typically, a protective film 95 may beprovided on the face 112 of the gel pad 94 or gel layer 94 in order toprotect it and keep it fresh. For example, reducing evaporation from awater-based or hydrogel 94 may be important. Similarly, keeping dust andother materials away from the surface 112 of the gel layer 94 when notin use will typically be important as well. Thus, the protective film 95may be applied to the gel layer 94 during the manufacturing process. Itmay be removed for application of the assembly 97 to the skin of a user136, and replaced when the apparatus 70 is removed at night.

Referring to FIG. 15, the position of the piezoelectric transducers 104may change or may be placed in a different location. For example, inthis embodiment the piezoelectric transducers 104 are positioned on thefront surface 108 of the backer 96. For example, in this embodiment, inorder to place the piezoelectric transducers 104 both closer to the skinof a wearer 136, and in intimate contact with the gel layer 94, the gellayer 94 may actually be formed over the piezoelectric transducers 104on the surface 108 of the backer 96 or substrate 96. In contrast, theprevious embodiment placed the piezoelectric transducer 104 on theopposite surface 103 or face 103 of the substrate 96.

Referring to FIG. 16, in this illustrated embodiment, the crosssectional top plan view of the assembly 97 as an actuator 74 isillustrative of an embedded piezoelectric transducer 104 within thesubstrate 96. In this embodiment, the piezoelectric transducer 104 mayactually be molded into, for example, a silicon substrate 96. This willprovide intimate contact through a solid, yet flexible transmissionmedium constituted by the substrate 96. Meanwhile then, the gel layer 94may be a comparatively thin layer 94 operating primarily if notexclusively as an adhesive and a contact material to transmit sonicwaves 137 a from the piezoelectric transducers 104 as received throughthe substrate 96.

Referring to FIGS. 13 through 16, the piezoelectric transducers 104 maybe positioned on the face 103 away from a user 136, on the face 108 ofthe substrate 96 closest to a user 136, or embedded within the substrate96, respectively. In any of these configurations, the layout from therear elevation view of FIG. 13 (where directions all refer with respectto a user) may be maintained.

Only the depth or position within the assembly 97 or within thethickness of the assembly 97 need change. Of course, a suitable mediummay be selected for forming the substrate 96, and particularly the gelpad 94 or gel layer 94 in order to optimize transmission of sonic waves137 a from the piezoelectric transducers 104 into the tissues 138 of awearer 136.

Referring to FIGS. 17 through 19, in certain embodiments, the substrate96 may degenerate (in the mathematical sense) or simplify down to alayer 96 bonded, secured, formed on, attached, or otherwise madeintegral with the case 80 of the system 70. In this embodiment, thepiezoelectric transducers 104 may connect directly through the case 80into the circuit board 126 of the system 70. In this embodiment, theactuator 74 as an assembly 97 becomes integral with the case 80 of thedriver 72 to form the system 70.

Again, the face 112 of the gel 94 may be opposite the surface 110 whichmay serve as a bond with, or may simply be deposited on the substrate96. In this embodiment, the gel layer 94 may be wiped on, spread on,applied and removed as a separate material, or the like.

Likewise, the configuration of FIGS. 17 through 19 illustrates how theoverall system 70 may be potted and integrated such that it is fullyimmersible. The port 89 may need to be configured in an alternativeconfiguration in order to make it seal. That is, a typical mini USB ormicro USB port 89 is not waterproof. Thus, the port 89 may have to beconfigured in a waterproof configuration. If so, then proper sealing andpotting of the system 70 in the case 80 may render the entire system 70submersible.

Referring to FIGS. 20 and 21, in the illustrated embodiment, a system 70and particularly, that portion constituted by the assembly 97 mayinteract to transmit sonic waves or sound waves into oppositedirections. For example, the assembly 97 may include a substrate 96having piezoelectric transducers 104 or discs 104 secured thereto.

In the embodiment of FIG. 20, the configuration of FIG. 14 isillustrated. Here, the piezoelectric discs 104 or piezoelectrictransducers 104 are secured against the face 103 of the substrate 96.Thus, the piezoelectric transducers 104 must propagate the sound waves137 a that will eventually be transmitted into the tissues 138 of a user136. To the extent that the substrate 96 may be a fabric or other porousmaterial, the propagation of the sonic waves 137 a toward the tissues138 may be attenuated somewhat by the substrate 96. This is one reasonwhy substrate 96 may beneficially be formed of a silicone, plastic,rubber, or other solid yet compliant material.

Meanwhile, the gel pad 94 is secured at its face 110 to the substrate96. Thus, the sonic waves 137 a propagate from the piezoelectrictransducer 104 that generates them, through the substrate 96, throughthe gel layer 94, and into the skin 139 and other tissues 138 of a user136. Inasmuch as the human body has a high fraction of water in thetissues 138, propagation of the sound waves 137 a may be very effective,and has been shown to be effective. Thus, the sonic waves 137 apropagated into the tissues 138 from the piezoelectric transducer 104are actually intercepted and transmitted by and through the skeletalstructure of a user 136 as well.

Meanwhile, the audible sound waves 137 b are similarly originated by theoscillations of the piezoelectric transducers 104. However, these soundwaves 137 b are propagated directly into air, or may be propagateddirectly into air, in order to be heard by the ears or through the earsof a user 136. Thus, in some respects the configuration of FIG. 20provides a readily audible sound wave 137 b in air that is more easilytransmitted in air.

Referring to FIG. 21, in certain embodiments, such as those of FIGS. 15and 16, the piezoelectric transducers 104 may be secured to the face 108or surface 108 of the substrate 96 rather than the surface 103. Thisprovides improved transmissivity, both by shortened distance and by moreintimate contact into the gel pad 94 or gel layer 94, and consequentlyto the skin 139 and other tissues 138 of a user 136.

However, certain negative consequences may also accrue. For example, thesubstrate 96, if formed of a polymeric or elastomeric, solid materialsuch as flexible silicone, rubber, or the like, may tend to attenuatethe signal of the piezoelectric transducer 104. This may muffle orreduce the intensity of the sound waves 137 b propagated through the airand away from the user 136.

One remedy for that attenuation may be to form the substrate 96 of afabric material, thus providing ready access to air through the face 103of the substrate 96 as a transmission medium for the sound waves 137 b.Meanwhile, with intimate contact and the proximity provided by thetransducer 104 embedded right within the gel layer 94, effectivetransmission of the sonic waves 137 a into the tissues 138 of a user 136would also be optimized.

The piezoelectric elements 104 may be secured to a gel pad 94 in any ofmultiple ways. In one embodiment, the piezoelectric elements 104 arebonded to a substrate. For example, in one embodiment the piezoelectricelements 104 have electrical leads 106 originating on one face thereof,and the opposite face thereof is bonded to a first side of a substrate96. On the opposite or second side or face of the substrate 96 isapplied a layer 94 of adhesive gel. The adhesive gel 94 may penetratethe substrate, which is typically a porous, non-woven, fabric material.

In other embodiments, the piezoelectric transducers 104 may have theirelectrode faces bonded to the substrate 96. Then, the adhesive gel 94may be applied across that same face 108 of the substrate 96, and theexposed, “non-electroded” face of the piezoelectric transducers 104. Ithas been found that the tactile transmission of the oscillatingfrequency of the piezoelectric transducers 104 appears to be moreeffective when the piezoelectric transducers 104 are embedded directlywithin the gel 94, and the gel 94 is in contact with the tissue 138(e.g., skin 139) of a user 136. Nevertheless, the adhesion of theadhesive gel 94 is better when more contact area is available. Thus, ithas been found most effective to apply the adhesive gel overall contactareas. This would include not only the substrate 96, but also to thefaces of the piezoelectric transducers 104.

Referring to FIG. 22, a chart 140 provides an illustration of a process140. That is, the chart 140 represents a process 140 of development.Although not entirely rigorously justified, explained, nor described,the process 140 represents certain steps that are observable in thedevelopment of a human subject 136. For example, stimuli 142 may arrivethrough all the senses. Senses include touch, taste, smell, sound, andsight. These are commonly referred to as the five senses.

As a result of stimuli 142 received through any of the senses by motionobserved, objects and persons seen, sounds, music, voices, and the likeheard, textures touched, objects and foods tasted, various materials andfoods smelled, and so forth, an individual subject 136 receives stimuli142. Likewise, an individual human being will have outputs 144. Outputs144 may be actions as a result of thinking, may be reactions as a resultof stimuli followed by thinking, or may be reactions as a startling.

For example, a common test for newborn infants is the startle response.A loud noise is generated in close proximity to an infant in order totest hearing. The startle response of the infant to the noise assures amedical worker or other person that hearing is well. Similarly, trackingtests are done wherein an object is placed within the field of view ofan infant, and the eyes are observed following or tracking the object.This assures that sight, muscular coordination, and the like are normalfor the sense of sight.

Similarly, other senses will detect stimuli 142 as a result of tastes,smells, touch sensations, nerve sensations in response to heat, cold,wet, and so forth.

One may think of stimuli 142 as sensations one may observe. Typically, asentiate or thinking human being as a young child will begin to becomeoriented or will begin orientation 145 to become oriented. This may bethought of as an event 145, or a process 145. Typically, it has beenobserved that individuals when they “fall asleep” become disoriented orun-oriented. This implies that the brain relaxes its cognitive controland integration of all the stimuli 142 received through the senses. Itallows the mind a certain amount of freedom from bodily stimulations,outside stimulations, and so forth. Thus, a user 136 may relax andsleep.

Dreaming is often a very mixed and confusing assortment of sensations ofbeing in places, moving between home, school, work, a garage, an island,a park, a mountain, and so forth, all within a matter of minutes ormoments. Because the mind is disoriented or un-oriented, it is free toprocess information, largely independent of surrounding realities.

On the other hand, orientation 145 by a human being helps the individualto make observations 146 internal to oneself. For example, perceivinghunger, anxiety, or other sensations internal to oneself may constituteobservations 146 by a user 136. Similarly, human beings makeobservations 147 of external phenomena. For example, the sensation offeeling a breeze blowing, cold, heat, bright lights, dim lights, colors,and the like are external observations 147. An individual who isoriented 145 begins developing correct or true and accurate observations146 internal to self, as perceptions 146.

Similarly, external observations 147 or external perceptions 147 arealso accumulated. From these observations 146, 147 an individual beginslearning 148. One may learn 148 facts. One may also begin categorizingand organizing 149 the facts learned 148, thus contributing toadditional cognitive learning 148 that involves thinking about andassociating facts from the observations 146, 147.

All of these factors contribute to the ongoing development of a sense ofself. We have here identified the principle of individuation as thatprocess of becoming aware of self, and distinguishing between self andthe external environment. It has been found that certain learningdisabilities, regardless of their medical source or organic source,interfere with individuation and thus halt or inhibit observations 146,147, learning 148, categorizing and organizing 149, or a combinationthereof. Thus, an individual for whatever organic reason, regardless ofwhether temporary or permanent, may fail to become consistently oriented145.

As infants grow, they typically begin acquiring gross motor skills suchas balance and walking at about one year of age. These gross motorskills developments 150 begin immediately at birth. However, they beginto be fully recognizable as controllable by an individual at about theage of one when balance and walking are typically mastered. Later on,fine motor skills development 151 may involve the ability to use thefingers or other digits under more specific control.

Likewise, speech development 152 is sufficiently mature by the age oftwo years that individuals can typically form words and sentences. Lateron, such as from about four to about six years, the development ofrecognition of symbols 153 and reading 153 as skills are typicallyobserved. Later, as children begin to learn mathematics and arithmeticfrom about six to about twelve years, abstractions 154 become part oftheir developed skills. Thus, the development 154 of abstraction and theability to think abstractly progresses.

It has been observed that if a person does not remain consistentlyoriented 145, learning 148 of all the skills 149, 150, 151, 152, 153,154 may be greatly inhibited. Moreover, the ability to preciselyperceive or observe 146, 147 may also be inhibited. Thus, individualswho are autistically inclined tend to see their world as containing toomuch stimulation 142, that appears chaotic, so they are not capable ofcategorizing and organizing 149.

A system 70 in accordance with the invention does not seek to “cure”autism or learning disabilities. Rather, it seeks to provide anotherform of stimulation 142 that assists in educating or training or simplyempowering a user 136 to be able to perceive 146 internally accurately,and to perceive 147 externally accurately. This is important in order toobtain and maintain an orientation 146 that gives proper perspective onself, external environments, and so forth. Thus, an individual user 136may learn to provide outputs 144 that are rational, reasonable, andappropriate in response to individual stimuli 142 and accumulatedstimuli 142 experienced over time.

Referring to FIG. 23, an individual 136 may undergo a process 160illustrated. The process 160 at one level may be thought of as includingpreparation 161. Preparation 161 may involve preparation of information,training facilitators, training a caregiver or principal relation holderwith the subject 136, and also communications or preparation of a user136. After proper preparation, sharing of information, assessments, andso forth, it may be determined that a user 136 is a candidate forapplication of the NOIT 70.

In the illustrated embodiment, for example, intake 162 or profiling 162of a user 136 may include tests, observations, assessments, and thelike. These may be valuable in order to determine applicability of thesystem 70 to the user 136, and various mechanisms and expectations forthat use.

Later, an introduction 163 of the user 136 to the system 70 may alsoinclude several steps. Initially, it has been found effective to providecertain safety 164 or assurance 164. This is typically provided bybringing together a facilitator, the subject 136, and a caregiveralready well known to the subject 136. The caregiver is already longrelied upon or trusted by the subject 136. Together they introduce 163the system 70.

Someone who understands the current proclivities of a subject 136 isproviding assurance to the user 136. The knowledge of the facilitatorprovides a degree of safety. Thus, safety 164 and assurance 164 may beprovided by the environment, the persons present, and so forth.

Exposure 165 has been found to be very important for some users 136 whoare particularly sensitive. Being able to observe, feel, touch, andlisten to the system 70 provides an exposure 165 that familiarizes asubject 136 therewith.

Operation 166 may be initiated separate from a user 136. Operation 166may only be partial. For example, operation 166 may involve holding thesystem 70 within a field of vision of a user 136, or near an ear inorder to allow the subject 136 to hear the tone being propagated by thesystem 70. Ultimately, listening is only one sensory contact 167.Touching, and feeling the vibration of the piezoelectric sensors 104 mayalso be conducted without actually applying the system 70 to the body ofa user 136.

Ultimately, one may test 168 to determine whether subjectively,objectively, by data, by independent measurement, or by simply manualassessment whether acceptance 169 has been achieved. Once the user 136has accepted 169 the concept of being in close proximity to the NOIT 70,the NOIT 70 may be applied 190 to a user 136.

The NOIT 70 is secured (applied 190) by removing the film 95 coveringthe gel layer 94 to expose the adhesive properties thereof to the skin139 of the user 136. The system 70 may be adhered to the back of a user136 near the top of the shoulder blades, and centered along the spinejust below the collar and between the shoulder blades.

If the test 168 reveals that a user 136 has not yet accepted 169 thesystem 70, then additional time may be provided for safety and assurance164, additional exposure 165, sensory contact 167, and so forth. Onceacceptance 169 is adequate, then the process of application 190 mayoccur.

This may begin with setting 191 various parameters and controls for thesystem 70. Although some settings 191 may be done after installation192, the setting 191 may be done prior to installation 192. Installation192 may include applying the actuator 74 or assembly 97 to the back of auser 136 followed by securing the case 80 and its contents to the mount90 integral to the assembly 97. Thereafter, observation 193 shouldcontinue. Meanwhile, observations 193 may be made by individuals, andmay also be made by sensors external to the system 70, or internal tothe system 70.

Similarly, recording 194 of the observations 193 may involve manualwriting, recording on a computer, recording on the memory 16 associatedwith the processor 14, and the system 70, and so forth. Ultimately,reporting 195 or tracking 195 may involve uploading information recorded194 from the observations 193. Again, manual intervention may be part ofthis or all of this. On the other hand, automatic data collection 193,recording 194, and reporting 195 may also be programmed into the systems10, 70 in order to be uploaded from the system 70 through the port 89,network card 42, or the like.

Analysis 196 may take place within the processor 14 in the system 70, ormay occur on some other computer 12 within the system 10. Analysis 196,just as reporting 195 or tracking 195 may occur on a daily basis, weeklybasis, instantaneously, or the like. Similarly, depending on thelocation of the processing for the analysis 196, this may occur withinthe system 70 or externally based upon periodic interconnectiontherebetween (between the system 70, and other computers in the system10).

De-installation 197 is typically required on at least a daily basis. Anindividual installation 192 may last for minutes, hours, or all daylong. However, in order to facilitate sleep, two factors aresignificant. First, the mechanical configuration of the system 70 wouldcreate a hard lump directly under the shoulder area of a user 136. Thiscould be uncomfortable and interfere with sleep. Thus, removing themechanical system 70 by de-installation 197 is important.

Likewise, and second, the concept of orientation 145 is directed towardconsciousness, not sleep. Falling asleep actually involvesde-orientating or un-orienting an individual. Literally, falling asleepis an event of dis-orientation or un-orientation. Thus, de-installation197 is typically done at the end of a day. An installation 192 should beallowed to persist as long as the subject 136 is comfortable with thepresence of the device secured to the subject 136.

Ultimately, as an ongoing process, assessments should be made based onthe observations 193, analysis 196, based on the reporting 195, and soforth. Thus, various changes may be made.

For example, it has been found that a user 136 who needs application 190of the system 70 often has heightened sensitivities coincident with theinability to properly manage and respond 144 to the surrounding stimuli142 of the environment. This has been found to also include theintensity or volume of the signal 137 a, 137 b produced by thepiezoelectric transducers 104. It has been found useful to observe 193among other parameters, the sensitivity of the user 136 to sound over aperiod of time of exposure 165 to the system 70.

Often, as orientation 145 proceeds, and becomes more stable, it has beenfound valuable to assess 198 and modify the settings 191 on the system70. For example, as hearing becomes less sensitive and lesshypersensitive, then the volume or the sound volume may be turned up.the volume may be adjusted up or down as the user deems comfortable.Accordingly, the system 70 in one embodiment has seven levels of sound,each preset in order to be easily accessible.

For example, in one embodiment, the system 70 may have buttons 84, 86,that allow a decrease or increase, respectively by actuating therespective button 84, 86. The system 70 responds by a spoken voicesound, originated by the piezoelectric transducers 104, stating what thelevel of sound is. Also, the sound level is propagated for a shortperiod of time or for one cycle in order that the facilitator orcaregiver can hear, and the subject 136 can hear the level of intensityor volume (amplitude, amplification, etc.) of the tone propagated by thesystem 70. Thus, the assessment 198 allows changing of various levels ofsound volume.

Typically, the button 84 allows sound volume to be dropped by a level.The button 86 provides for the sound to be increased by a level. In oneembodiment, the sound levels may be linearly related such that eachrepresents one increment linearly increasing above or decreasing below asound intensity adjacent thereto. In other embodiments, the sound may becontrolled in a binary fashion meaning that each level may double thatof a level below, or halve the level of sound of a next higher numberedlevel.

In other embodiments, the levels may provide a greater range byincreasing logarithmically in order to provide a broader range. This mayprovide more control at one end of the intensity spectrum than theother.

Ultimately, a test 200 may determine whether the system 70 isfunctioning well, and the subject 136 is needing it less. If the test200 determines that continued use should occur, then the process 160 mayreturn to the application 190 with the possibility of altering settingsor setting 191 a new value of any particular control parameter.Ultimately, a test 201 may be a result of long term stabilization of auser 136.

For example, it has been found in tests that users 136 seem to fall inthree major categories. About half the users 136 will eventuallystabilize and begin to self wean from the system 70. That is, it is notnecessary to wear the system 70 every day or perhaps at all. That is, asthe user 136 becomes more oriented 145, he or she wants and needs thesystem 70 less.

For example, in certain embodiments, the assessment 198 may includeevaluating how frequently or how often the propagated sound waves 137(note that a reference numeral represents an item, and trailing lettersrepresent specific instances thereof) recur. They may have severallevels of delay or periods of delay. Typically, the system 70 has beenfound, as described hereinabove, to operate well at a target cycle timeof about eight seconds.

The tone begins and maintains its initial volume intensity for about onehalf to about one and a half seconds, and typically about one secondbefore it begins decaying. Thereafter, the tone decays for the remainderof the initial seven seconds, followed by about one second of silence.Thereafter, at eight seconds from initiation of the sound waves 137, thesystem 70 begins again to propagate a new instance of the signal 137.

The delay period has been found to be suitably established in a binaryform. Thus, the initial delay of eight seconds at a next, increased,value will be double. The next increase doubles the previous value. Andso forth. Thus, it has been found that the buttons 84, 86 can becontrived to operate together to change the time delay.

Actually, time delay may be a changed linear increment, but has beenfound to be best served with a power series or a binary series whereeach level represent double the time per full cycle compared to its nextlower level. The assessment 198 may result in setting 191 both the timedelay and the volume for the signal. If the test 200 has eventuallyresulted in achieving a suitable level of sound volume and the maximumdelay, for some period of time, a test 201 may be conducted to determinewhether the user 136 is ready for an alternate system 202 or eventermination 203.

The system 10 was developed specifically to address severely affected,learning-disabled subjects 136 who are not capable or who are notwilling to use a head set such as headphones or head speakers or a setof earbuds. Once the test 201 has been passed successfully in a modeidentified by the branch A, then a user 136 may be transitioned to analternate therapy 202. The user 136 may rely on something such asheadphones or earbuds supported by and connected directly to the head ofuser 136.

Alternatively, if the user 136 is stabilized, then termination 203 maybe appropriate. Even after use of an alternate 202, with continued workon the settings 191 until the assessment 198 shows a suitability for thealternate B, then termination 203 may be appropriate at that time.

As a practical reality, the system 70 is not a medical device. It doesnot attempt to provide any medical therapy. It is a learning tool 70. Assuch, it simply provides a stimulus by way of sound waves 137 that allowa user 136 wearing the system 70 to focus on sound and thereby becomeoriented 145. A user 136 may then advance in the other learningprocesses or steps identified in the process 140. Individuals havedifferent and unique conditions. These do not lend themselves to asingle solution. Thus, for example, the overall calendar time duringwhich continuing application 190 of the system 70 to a user 136 mayoccur may be mere weeks or may extend for years.

Thus, it has been found that about half the users 136 will self wean andrequire no, or less frequent, repetition of the tone output by thepiezoelectric transducers 104. Likewise, they may transition to analternate system 202, and may eventually terminate 203 the use of anyassistance.

Another group, about a fourth of the subjects 136 using the system 70will eventually move under the motivation (instigation) of a caregiverto an alternate system 202. Any may return periodically or episodicallyto using the alternate 202, or even the system 70. At one time, it wasbelieved that one should move away from the system 70, and toward analternate 202 in all cases. It has subsequently been found that thesystem 70 in some respects serves very well certain populations 136, andno alternate 202 is necessary. Also, as the cost of manufacturing thesystem 70 and actuators 74 reduces, the cost of the application 190 overa longer period of time becomes more tractable.

A third group of subjects 136 includes about one quarter of the users136 of the system 70. This represents about one quarter of that 10 to 15percent of all learning disabled (e.g., autistic) individuals needingintervention by a NOIT 70. These individuals may never need or be ableto be weaned or separated from an ongoing use or application 190 of thesystem 70. For example, these persons 136 may still require the devicefor several minutes, or several hours a day. Some may require the use ofit all day. Others may simply need an episodic or periodic use of thesystem 70 or the alternate 202 when backsliding or retrogression isobserved.

Referring to FIG. 24, a process 210 undergone by a subject 136 or user136 is illustrated. This stands in contrast to the process 160 that isexecuted either by the system 70, the system 70 in conjunction withother computers 12 in a system 10, or by a facilitator in combinationwith the system 70 alone or in an overall system 10.

Thus, referring to FIG. 24, a process 210 undergone by a subject 136involves the process of assurance 211 discussed hereinabove as thesafety or assurance 164. Similarly, exposure 212 may correspond to theexposure 165. Thus, the exposure 212 is exposure by the user 136,whereas exposure 165 refers to exposing 165 by the system 70 and thefacilitator. Detection 213 by a user 136 corresponds to the sensorycontact operation 167.

The reaction 214 then is the response 144 or output 144 of a user 136 tothe system 70 as a presence, or connected to a user 136. Thereafter,observation 215 occurs by a user. Eventually, a test 204 represents theprocess of confirming a coming to acceptance 216. That is, acceptance216 occurs at some point, based on a user 136 having subconsciously, orcompletely unconsciously, arrived at the acceptance 216 of the presenceand use of the system 70.

Over time then, habituation 217 occurs. In fact, the user 136 may showstress if the system 70 is removed, or if the time delay is extended fortoo long a time. Eventually, orientation 218 may be deemed to occur.Orientation 218 may actually occur almost immediately, but may notpersist. Orientation 218 is a fluid concept that may occur almostimmediately after acceptance 216, but may become more permanent or morereliable over time. Ultimately, this results in stabilization 219 of auser. At some point, a test 205 may correspond to one of the tests 200,201 in which a user 136 has self tested 205, or has come to a state ofpersistent stabilization 219, the ability to live without constantexposure to the system 70, or with only periodic or episodic exposure. Auser 136 persists in self-orienting every day upon waking.

Referring to FIG. 25, in one embodiment, the process 220 reflects theother processes or exposure that a user 136 undergoes after acceptance216, habituation 217, and resulting orientation 218. Followingorientation 218, whether for a short period or long period,individuation 221 begins. In an oriented 145 condition, a user 136 maybegin to sense self, speak of self, refer to self, begin to recognizepossession of objects owned by the user 136 and acknowledge thedifferentiation between the individual and other persons nearby.Thereafter, ongoing development 222 may occur. For example, ongoinglearning development 223 may involve learning of facts information, andthe like useful in daily functioning with objects, alone, or the like.The use of toys, tools, treatment of foods, and so forth may be part ofongoing learning development 223. Likewise, ongoing relationaldevelopment 224 may occur. This typically involves relationships withother human beings and establishing the individual as distinct fromothers. It establishes the rights and responsibilities of individualsincluding oneself in relationship or within the context of all otherpersons.

Ultimately, ongoing functional development 225 may involve thedevelopment of skills rather than simply the perceiving and gathering ofaccurate information or the relationships 224 developed. Eventually,stabilization 226 may correspond to stabilization 219, or may be thoughtof as emotional and functional stabilization 226. Ultimately, over time,one objective is permanence 227 if possible. Permanence 227 may involvethe permanence of the orientation 218 and the individuation 221, thusrequiring either no continued use of either the system 70 or alternate202, or possibly only episodic or periodic return thereto. At thatpoint, maintenance 228 may involve ongoing use by that fraction of users136 who do not choose or do not become comfortable completely abandoninguse of a system 70 or an alternate 202. Maintenance 228 for someindividuals, particularly that third group that never actually weansfrom the system 70, may involve episodic or periodic use.

Thus, some individuals self wean and become independent from the system70 and its alternates 202. Others will wean off of those systems 70,202, but will only do so at the instigation of a caregiver, facilitator,or both. Yet another group may never wean away, but will typically usereduced time or need only a short period of time each day, or a periodicor episodic application of the system 70. Within this last group theremay be some who actually permanently need artificial orientation.However, it has not been found necessary so far to continue the useindefinitely on an everyday basis for any subjects 136. Permanentdependence has not resulted.

Referring to FIG. 26, in one embodiment, a process of progression awayfrom dependence on the system 70 may involve a procedure 230. Forexample, a user 136 may be exposed 231 or experience an exposure 231 toan alternative 202 system. Thereafter, a test 206 may determine whetheran interest exists. This results in an acceptance 232 of the alternate202. Thereafter, observation 233 of behavior and recording 234 may bedone with the user 136 functioning with the alternate 202. Ultimately,the reduction process 235 may involve using the alternate 202 for lesstime, with longer delay periods between tones, and so forth. Ultimately,a transition process 236 may lead to evaluations 207.

Evaluating 207 results in ultimately either maintenance on demand 237 orseparation 238 from all use of the system 70 and alternates 202. Thus,one may consider the process 230 as a weaning process or a naturalprocess that is arrived at by users 136. Weaning is not alwaysnecessary. As discussed hereinabove, three groups, including about halfwho self-wean away from the system 70 and its alternates 202 is balancedby the other half who are about equally divided between those who areweaned at the instigation of an observer. The observer (caregiver)notices stability and thereby begins to extend the time periods, ortransition away from the system 70. This is done by the process 230 ofexposing 231 and assessing 206 an interest and thereby progressingthrough the process 230 of moving to the alternate 202 and thenultimately weaning.

It has been found that the details of the processes of maintenance 237and separation 238, as well as the transition process vary byindividual. Accordingly, notwithstanding various processes have beenfound effective, no particular one operates for every individual. As apractical matter, human intervention by a person who knows andunderstands the individual user 136 has been found particularlyimportant. Certain processes may be automated in a computer system 10 ofwhich the system 70 forms a part. However, caregivers typically havespent years knowing every nuance of behavior, expression, and the likeof users 136. Accordingly, their assessment would have to be reduced tosome artificial intelligence engine in order to replace them. This isnot a commercially practicable solution.

Thus, in some embodiments, a weaning process may involve steps such asthe following. One may adjust the delay time upward and observe the user136 for some period of time. If the user 136 is agitated and insecure orretrogresses, then the time period may be moved back. However, as apractical matter, once an individual has stabilized, then it has notbeen problematic to lengthen the time, and allow the person torestabilize at a extended delay, between cycles of the presentation ofthe tone.

Initially, it was formulated as a weaning process to adjust the timeperiod up to the next longer delay period and observe any agitation. Ifagitation or misbehavior and obvious stress occurred then the system 70was adjusted to put delay time back down to the previous delay time forat least two hours before it was attempted again to extend it.

As a practical matter, the system 70 has operated sufficiently well thatan observant caregiver can determine when to try to change the frequencyor delay between presentations of the tone. It has been a verygratifying observation of testing of the system 70 to note that abouthalf of the subjects 136 self wean, and do not need the ongoing use ofthe system 70. Others, wean away under the tutelage of an observantcaregiver. Others continue to maintain on demand with periodic orepisodic use of the system 70 or an alternate 202.

It has been recommended in testing that if an adjustment to the system70 produces excessive agitation and misbehavior for more than half anhour that the previous parameters should be set until the individual isstabilized enough to tolerate such a change. Meanwhile, it has beenproposed that such a change be made not more than every two hours intesting whether it will be accepted by the user 136.

Similarly, it has been recommended in testing that once a setting hasbeen selected and accepted, selected by the caregiver and accepted bythe user 136, that it remain there for at least one full day.Thereafter, other changes may be made in the weaning process.

As a practical matter, some individuals move faster, some much moreslowly. Thus, the system 70 has been found to be effective within hoursfor some subjects 136, and to be unnecessary within a matter of a fewweeks. Typically, a process occurs over a period of about four months.However, some individuals 136 require two years with continuing episodicor periodic use. Others within a matter of weeks are permanentlyseparated 238 from dependence on the system 70 or the alternate 202.

The Natural Orientation Induction Tool 70 (NOIT 70) is an electronicinstrument useful in educating learning-disabled persons. The NaturalOrientation Induction Tool was originated because those learningdisabled persons who most need a correct perception and orientation arethose who will not tolerate other mechanisms.

For example, typically, persons characterized as autistic may be hypersensitive to sound, touch, smell, taste, and visual stimuli. Typically,about ten to fifteen percent of autistic subject 136 will not toleratewearing of a headset. The headset, whether conventional stereoheadphones or earbuds, may influence those persons negatively by reasonof their contact forces and textures, their visual aspect, as well astheir aural effect. They will typically be forcibly removed from thehead by a wearer 136 who still desperately needs a natural orientationto be induced by listening to the orienting sound.

Initially, when a NOIT instrument 70 is introduced to a user, the usermay react due to hyper sensitivity to various stimuli. The image of thedevice, its feel, its sound, will typically be perceived. The hypersensitivity of an autistic individual 136 may exacerbate the perceptionof annoyance with the NOIT 70. However, over time, as an individual 136becomes more naturally oriented as a result of the periodic tone andstimulation available from the piezoelectric elements 104 thereof,sensitivities become more normal, and volume of sound 137, for examplemay need to be increased. That is, with the presence of a NOIT 70, withits persistent, periodic, audible 137 b and tactile 137 a stimuli, thehyper sensitivities normalize or go away, as sensitivities of a user 136are oriented and become consistent with “normal” persons.

One may think of a NOIT 70 in certain embodiments as a mobile stereolistening system 70. The Sony Walkman® was a sound system that predatedmodern MP3 players, the Apple iPod,® and other portable audio devices.However, those devices included speakers worn on the head, and aplayback device typically held in a pocket or case. One may think of theNOIT 70 as a portable source of both aural 137 b and tactile 137 a,sonic stimulus.

Two important features of the NOIT 70 are first that the sound iscomparatively clean. It does not include other random noise. Nor is itpermitted to have the variety that music has. It has been found thatlearning disabled individuals, such as those subject to Autism,Angleman's Syndrome, and Dyslexia, typically enjoy listening to music.The music listened to by individuals varies across a multitude ofgenres. Notwithstanding individuals enjoy the music, it often does notprovide orientation. However, it is often calming. Perhaps it is therhythmic repeatable quality thereof that assists. However, it has notbeen found effective to sufficiently orient the individual in order toimprove learning.

Here, having a clean sound, a bell tone that decays over time,propagated and sufficiently close to the ears, provides a sonic signal137 that an individual can effectively “forget.” That is, it veryquickly fades into or becomes integrated with the backgroundenvironment. Therefore it becomes non-disruptive. However, itspersistence, clarity, proximity, and so forth allow it to become a focusattention, of the “mind's eye,” regardless of whether consideredconscious or subconscious, such that an individual wearer 136 eventuallybecomes naturally oriented to accurately perceive one's self andreceived sensory stimuli.

Weaning from the NOIT 70 varies with various subjects. For example, withsome subjects, weaning is almost instant. Orientation occurscomparatively quickly, even within the first hours or days. Thus theymay maintain natural orientation after wearing the NOIT for a shortperiod of time. Other users 136 have worn the NOIT 70 for some portionof a day over extended periods of time, even months and years, and stillfeel most comfortable continuing to wear the NOIT 70 in order to obtainor maintain a natural orientation.

Kinesthetics may be thought of as the body's ability, and thus themind's ability, to monitor where the body parts are. With eyes open orclosed, with the ability to hear or not, an individual may move.However, all the bodily senses go into detecting the bodily members.Thus, the body, and therefore the mind, will be aware of where eachbodily member is.

For example, if an individual is dizzy, they typically have lost thebalance and the orientation that the inner ear provides. Spun around andthen released to walk, a dizzy individual will typically tip over.Perception affects balance.

Likewise, learning disabled people, often have difficulty with balance,due to a lack of orientation. It has been demonstrated that within avery short period of time, on the order of days to less than two weeks adyslexic user 136 can improve reading levels that have previously beendistorted by distorted perceptions.

Study shows that an explanation can be made. A lack of orientationinhibits the ability to perceive, read, and understand. Individualsafflicted with dyslexia, the dyslexia is not “cured” by creating animproved orientation. Rather, by the teaching of an orientation orimposing an orientation, perceptions are improved. Once perceptions areimproved, much of the confusion in perception and therefore learning maybe corrected. In other words, improved perceptions clarify confusion, sothat learning disabled persons will learn better and faster.

Persons who are learning disabled, specifically with dyslexia, mayactually have substantial perceptual flexibility. This perceptualflexibility is both an asset and a problem. Typically, these persons canreshuffle confusing things in order to determine meaning. Speed readingand other teachinabg techniques rely on the brain's phenomenal capacityto absorb individual facts, and automatically (non-consciously) orderthem.

Thus, a person with dyslexia actually appears to process much fasterthan others the changes caused by moving around the order of stimuli,images, sounds, or the like. Thus, such persons can intuit complexchanges. However, this kind of information is both actual and typical inthe natural world of real objects and persons perceived by anindividual.

On the other hand, symbols, such as letters, do not have an inherentmeaning. Symbols are abstractions that have meanings assigned to them,which meanings must be learned. Thus, to the learning disabled,reshuffling symbols has no context in experience or reality.

For example, a dyslexic person sees a symbol as confusing. The mindtries to scramble and rearrange the symbols. However, the symbols haveno inherent meaning. Therefore, the mind fails to interpret the symbols.This may cause stress. The stress reinforces the perception ofconfusion. Thus the mind refuses to continue. This cycle may be brokenby improving perception. Dyslexia causes perceptual confusionepisodically. Autism has chronic perceptual confusion. With respect tothe instant invention, the medical cause of autism remains irrelevantand uncured.

EXAMPLES

It has been found that orientation of an individual is a majorconsequence of an autism dysfunction or an autistic condition.Individuals are disoriented or un-oriented. When conventional methodsare inadequate or impossible, a self-adhering auditory and physicalsensory stimulating system 70 may be affixed to the skin 139. It ispositioned below the collar on the spine between the tops of theshoulder blades. This has the effect in field trials of reducing oreliminating perceptual distortions and disorientation of the wearer 136(subject 136).

The system 70 has the effect of creating in the “mind's eye” an“orientation point” that is located approximately six inches behind andabout six inches above the head of a user. This position may be changed,but has been found to be most effective at about this range. It maystill be effective at from about two to about twelve inches away fromthe user. However, the six inch measurement (back and up) from the headof a user has been found suitable. Also, elevation may be just above eyelevel.

Also, a counseling procedure has been provided for providing akinesthetic sense to establish an oriented state. A counseling procedureuses the auditory senses, as well as the sense of balance or motion tobring about an oriented state in a user. The inventor has developed suchprocess.

The procedure with a headset or ear buds has been replaced in a methodand apparatus in accordance with the instant invention in order toservice the needs of autistic individuals who lack the ability orinclination to use conventional hearing systems such as earbuds,stereophonic headphones, or the like.

Example 1

A NOIT 70 was installed on a child subject to Angelman's Syndrome. Thechild was incapable of walking, or speaking. Over a comparatively shortperiod of time (e.g., weeks) the child began walking and speaking. Thus,by merely acquiring a natural orientation provided by the NOIT 70, thechild's perceptions were changed, and the child could begin processinginformation accurately and without the previous confusion.

Example 2

A NOIT 70 was applied to an Alzheimer's subject 136. Over time, theindividual showed decreased confusion, the disorientation normallyassociated with the condition.

Example 3

In another case study, a child of the age of about six and a half yearshad been non-verbal and used a system 70 in accordance with theinvention for a period of six months for up to about ten hours per day.This child was consequently able to use a headset, which had not beenpossible earlier due to the child's behavior. This child completed workon concepts of self, change, and consequence, information important tounderstand in order to move past the conditions of autism. The child whospent a majority of time prior to the use of the system 70 in acondition that appeared disoriented, filled with self stimulation withhorses and helicopters was oriented to the environment afterward, andbehaved much more appropriately. Social interaction could be considerednormal and typical of a child of eight years upon completion of use ofthe system 70 in this trial.

At the onset of the trial the child could use five words that could beunderstood. Within weeks, the child was able to speak more clearly, usednew single words, used names appropriately, and within four months hadrecognized the concept of self by using words such as me and mine.Moreover, abstract phrases that included pronouns like “it,” andarticles like “the” which are abstractions in language, were alsoincluded in the speech of this subject. As a result, family of thesubject moved exclusively to therapy with the system 70 and moved on todoubling speech therapy as it was now much more productive.

Example 4

An example of a man of the age of 44 who lived in an assisted livingsituation and was required to take several medications, included abouttwo and a half hours per day for about four months of exposure to thesystem 70. Qualitative data from the logs showed improved use of eyecontact, use of pronouns, and a calm, happy disposition, all indicativeof improvement over the initial autistic condition. Moreover, worksessions devoted to self, change, and consequence were successfullycompleted.

Example 5

In another example, a child of the age of 17 was verbal until the age of4, but had subsequently moved into autistic behaviors. The system 70after use for a single week had oriented the subject sufficiently thatboth a headset and the system 70 could be used over a period of fiveweeks. Eventually, the subject was able to transition to a headsetexclusively for the remaining nine weeks of the test.

Data was collected for periods of from about eight to about twelve hoursper day over a period of fifteen weeks. It was discovered that theheadset was positioned wrong, resulting in a period of regression, whichwas recovered. Thus, the system 70 enabled the subject to improve useand wear the headset for two hours per day with no regression observed.

The largest change observed was less inappropriate social behavior, andless of the ritualistic, self stimulating behaviors and self injury thatare often associated with autism. The subject no longer snatched foodfrom others, and had reduced the behavior of putting inappropriateobjects in the garbage, or rummaging in the garbage. Likewise, decreasedpica activity, flicking of fingers, rinsing fingers, and throwinginappropriate objects out of the window were all observed.

Moreover, the subject was beginning to recognize himself as anindividual, a key factor in autism behaviors, by using full sentencesthat included himself and the objects of his desire such as, “I want youto”, etc. Likewise, “I want to listen to a tape” and “I want a cookie”as well as “I want you to read a book” and the use of the “I” pronounand verbs all occurred around the thirteenth week of the trial.

Example 6

In another example, a child of the age of 17 used the system 70 for aperiod of nineteen weeks and abruptly stopped for a holiday. Certainregression was evident upon returning to the program. Qualitative gainswere observed in self advocacy, reduced need for autistic rituals,improvements in creating relationships, less expressions of rage, and soforth.

Example 7

In yet another example, a child subject 136 was not willing to allow thesystem 70 to be used. Eventually, after short periods of use, bypermission from the child, the child became more familiar with thesystem 70, and began spending more time. Eventually, the child couldwear the system 70 and reported that she felt “awesome” when wearing thesystem 70. This child was often able to wear the system 70 for periodsof about an hour and a half.

Qualitatively the child seemed to be much different, less bothered bychaos of a friend who was similarly situated, but not being treated bythe system 70. The child was able to separate herself from the chaoscaused by the other child, establish order, and even had behaviorsufficiently normal to be taken to a local restaurant for a meal, withbehavior described by the caregiver as “beautiful.”

The child 136 continued to wear the system 70 for about one and a halfhours per day during her waking time and also for shorter periods offrom about three to about five minutes several times during the day. Thechild was observed to have increased her awareness of herself, a keycharacteristic needed by autistic children, and became more aware of andpossessive of her “stuff,” such as books, games, computers, and thelike. She became more aware of items such as clothing of hers, andbecame more independent in being able to dress herself and to dressherself with clothes in proper orientation.

Why is it useful to have the sound originate from behind the head andabove the line of sight, even above the head? For example, in someembodiments, the sound appears or is perceived by a user to originatefrom about six inches behind and about six inches above the head. It hasbeen determined that if a person can begin to have more of a “birds eyeview” of the world, including oneself, it is possible to cause otherperceptions by the user to be more accurate.

One difficulty in the education or training of learning disabledpersons, such as those with autistic tendencies, is a lack of accurateperceptions. Another difficulty has been the inability to accuratelyperceive oneself, or actually sense one's individuality. Concepts ofself, individuality, ownership are typically absent in autisticindividuals. It appears that many autistic individuals are notperceiving themselves as individual entities, and therefore do not havean orientation or context from which to observe stimuli, aural, visual,and so forth, that keep bombarding them. Thus, it has been found thatorienting “the mind's eye” to see or perceive not only the stimuli beingreceived by the user, but also perceiving the “self” also of the userallows the user to begin to see their own individual self in the contextof surrounding stimuli, such as sound, sight, touch, other senses, andso forth. In reality, one may also think of this as the user or wearerperceiving stimuli in the context of one's self.

One exercise for teaching persons diagnosed with dyslexia is to havethem perceive themselves standing behind and above themselves. This maybe done as a visualization exercise within their own mind. Non-verbalautistic individuals often lack the ability to understand or comply withsuch directions. Thus, the NOIT 70 provides this point of viewinvoluntarily by drawing attention to such a point of reference in thespace near a user 136.

It has been found to be more effective to originate perceptions near andabout a location than right at the exact location. Thus, in oneembodiment, a specific orienting sound 137, such as the decaying bellchime is moved about a location behind the head and above the line ofsight. Thus, the sound during recording may be moved above and below atarget location, and from right to left about the target location.Meanwhile, microphones embedded at the location of eardrums in a modelhead provide the detection at the desired spots in order to replicatethe artifacts of sound as perceived by a real person hearing the realand original sound, originating about the real position behind and abovethe hearer. The bell or chime was produced, or the tone thereof wasproduced, about the proper location, crossing back and forth throughthat location and later replicated by the NOIT 70. The recorded soundranges from about 20 kilohertz to about 40 kilohertz.

In one embodiment of an apparatus and method in accordance with theinvention, resetting values of parameters in the NOIT 70 may be led,followed, or both by generation of a vocal word. For example, uponadjusting sound, a voice may be heard from the piezoelectric transducersoperating as speakers to say level one, or level two, or the like. Thena tone may play. Subsequently, the voice may repeat. In otherembodiments, the voice may simply be generated either before or after atone is played. Thus, an operator may touch a control button to changedelay time or volume, for example, and a voice may announce, confirm, orthe like the particular setting or level. Steps and processes describedherein may be executed by modules 131, stored in memory 16 and executingon a processor 14 of a computer 12 in a system 10. Step labels describesuch modules and such steps or processes.

In one presently contemplated embodiment, half of each word is actuallypropagated by each of the piezoelectric transducers 104. Inasmuch as thepiezoelectric transducers 104 operate in pairs, to provide astereophonic and multi-media effect, it is important to be assured thatno electrical failure has occurred. Thus, one test mode built into theNOIT 70 is to have each piezoelectric transducer 104 responsible toprovide half of each word. For example, if the NOIT provides theexpression “level two” each word or half of each word may be generatedby only one of the piezoelectric transducers 104. Thus, if onetransducer 104 has failed, or its electrical connection has failed inany way, then only half of each message of each word is heard. One mayremove and replace the pad with its associated transducers. If the NOITitself has failed, new transducers will result in the same failure todeliver the complete words.

The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms withoutdeparting from its fundamental functions or essential characteristics.The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only asillustrative, and not restrictive. All changes which come within themeaning and range of equivalency of the illustrative embodiments are tobe embraced within their scope.

What is claimed and desired to be secured by United States LettersPatent is:
 1. An apparatus focusing attention of a student, as a user,by inducing sound waves into the body of the user simultaneously throughair to the ears thereof and through a tissue remote from the ears, theapparatus comprising: a driver comprising a controller operablyconnected to control an actuator; the actuator comprising at least twotransducers, the actuator sized and shaped to position in direct contactwith skin of a subject, remote from the ears, and to oscillate in arange of frequencies audible to a human; the actuator, wherein the atleast two transducers are positioned apart a distance selected toproduce sound waves simultaneously into the body through the skin and tothe ears through air, stereophonically balanced to be perceived tooriginate away from the actuator; the driver, wherein the controller isprogrammed to oscillate the at least two transducers simultaneously andrepeatedly at a periodicity selected to focus attention of the subjectcontinuously a distance away from the subject.
 2. The apparatus of claim1, wherein: the at least two transducers are positioned symmetricallyand remotely with respect to the head of a user; the sound waves arecharacterized by a frequency defining a tone occurring at a periodicitydefining a repetition rate; and the positioning of the at least twotransducers, the frequency, and the periodicity are selected to beeffective to cause perceptions of the subject to be interpretedaccurately.
 3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the range is selectedto be from about 3000 Hertz to about 6000 Hertz.
 4. The apparatus ofclaim 3, wherein the range is selected to be from about 4.2 KiloHertz toabout 4.5 KiloHertz.
 5. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein: thepositioning is selected to originate the sound waves in a manner to beperceived by the subject to originate at a single perceived locationremote from the at least two transducers and spaced away from the headof a user a distance above and behind the head.
 6. The apparatus ofclaim 5, wherein: the controller is programmed to control the at leasttwo transducers to initiate a first tone at a first time, to extend overa duration constituting a first period of time; and the controller isprogrammed to control the volume of the tone during the first period oftime at a level of energy corresponding to a sound volume audiblethrough ambient air to the subject; and perceived location and soundvolume are selected to be effective to “orient” the subject, whereorienting is to focus the attention of the subject for a time effectiveto cause the subject to begin perceiving accurately sensations detectedby at least one of the five senses of the subject.
 7. The apparatus ofclaim 6, wherein: the controller and the at least two transducers areoperably connected to initiate a second tone at a second time for asecond period of time, with a delay therebetween adjustable in responseto maintenance by the subject of the orientation.
 8. The apparatus ofclaim 7, wherein the first and second tones have the same frequency anda volume that decays therebetween.
 9. The apparatus of claim 7, whereinthe controller is programmed to: control an elapsed time of the delay;and repeat in the second tone a characteristic of the first tone,comprising at least one of a duration, volume, decay, and frequency. 10.The apparatus of claim 9 wherein: the controller is programmed toproduce the first tone and second tone through the at least twotransducers, substantially identical in frequency and volume; and theactuator is connected to the skin absent appreciable air throughout acontinuous path therebetween.
 11. A system comprising: a controller, anactuator operably connected to the controller; the actuator, comprisingpiezoelectric transducers sized and positioned to produce sound waves;the actuator, sized and shaped to secure to, and transmit a firstportion of the sound waves through, skin of a subject; the actuator,sized and shaped to transmit a second portion of the sound waves throughair to ears of a subject; and the controller, programmed to control thepiezoelectric transducers to produce the sound waves having physicalcharacteristics and locations of origin selected to cause the subject toperceive the second portion of the sound waves as originating from asingle remote location spaced away from the subject.
 12. The system ofclaim 11, wherein the remote location is above and behind the head ofthe subject.
 13. The system of claim 11, wherein the remote location isabove and behind the actuator when secured to the subject.
 14. Thesystem of claim 11, further comprising a securement mechanismacoustically coupling the actuator to the skin of the subject.
 15. Thesystem of claim 14, wherein the securement mechanism comprises a gelselected to adhere to the subject, providing a substantially contiguousand continuous path for the sound waves into the subject.
 16. The systemof claim 11, further comprising: a housing selectively securable to andremovable from the actuator; a circuit board operably connectable to theactuator and controller; and buttons in the housing operably connectedto receive inputs from an operator effective to alter operation of thecontroller.
 17. The system of claim 11 wherein at least one of theduration, volume, decay, and frequency of the sound waves is selected tobe effective to cause the user to accurately perceive sensationsreceived from at least one of the five senses thereof, by focusing theattention of the subject persistently on the remote location.
 18. Amethod of training a subject having a learning disability, the methodcomprising: providing an actuator comprising at least two piezoelectrictransducers sized and positioned to produce sound waves, transmittingthe soundwaves simultaneously into the body of a subject by mechanicalcontact and acoustically through air to ears of the subject,simultaneously; securing the actuator to skin of a subject; controllingthe piezoelectric transducers to produce the sound waves having physicalcharacteristics and originating from locations selected to be perceivedby the subject as originating at a single remote location spaced awayfrom the actuator; and generating the sound waves effective to focusconsistently the attention of the subject on the single remote location.19. The method of claim 18, wherein: the learning disability of thesubject comprises mental perceptions not accurately reflecting actualperceptions detected by at least one of the five senses of the subject;the sound waves are selected to be repeating at a constant value ofperiodicity; and the remote location is at least one of above and behindthe head of the subject.
 20. The method of claim 18, further comprising,securing the actuator on the body of the subject in a locationinaccessible by the user and fixed with respect to the user.